Run Flat Tires
Run flat tires (RFT) made their first appearance in the mid-1980s. Nowadays, they are becoming increasingly popular. They are becoming something standard in vehicles of some automotive manufactures and several consumers are inquiring about beneficial run flats are and how they impact driving.
What are Run Flat Tires?
Run flat tires are tires that allow you to continue driving even though they have been pierced, so that you can take them to an auto shop to get them replaced or find a safe area to replace the tire yourself.
Most importantly, you canβt drive with these tires forever. You must refer to the specifications of your vehicleβs manufacturer and find out how far you can travel with your run flat tires. Run-flat tires can allow your vehicle to travel with a reduction of inflation pressure for up to 80 km at a maximum speed of 80 km/h.
How Do Run Flat Tires Work?
First and foremost, there are two main types of run flat tires and theyβre self-supporting system and support ring system.
In regards to the self-supporting system, there is a self-supporting reinforced wall which will support the vehicle in case of the any tire gets deflated. This construction allows the vehicle to travel after the loss of air pressure.
Self-supporting RFT
On the other hand, support ring run provides the tire with a hard rubber or structure that can continue supporting the weight of the vehicle while air is being deflated.
RFT Support Ring System
While they perform even though the tires are flat, they may only be used when your vehicle is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The TPMS notifies you as soon as air begins getting deflated from your tires. Without TPMS, you might not be alert that you are driving your vehicle on tires that have lost a lot of pressure.
Benefits of Run Flat Tires
You are not required to replace any of your tires in a potentially dangerous or slightly uncomfortable situation. This is the advantage of run flat tires and this is perhaps why they were created. With traditional tires, you are required to replace them immediately or have your vehicle towed if the tires have been deflated.
Run flat tires are more beneficial than traditional tires because they are more stable, give better control, and provide support to your vehicle even when you are in an air loss situation.
Nowadays, consumers have safety and reliability at the top of their list of features when theyβre looking for a vehicle. Consequently, the purchasing of run flat tires is expected to become more popular. Eventually, run flat tires is going to become something standard in every vehicle.