What Causes Truck Tyre Blowout: 8 Reasons You Need to Know
Heavy trucks carry loads on highways to deliver goods from one location to another. But there’s a big problem that worries almost all truck drivers and fleet owners- that’s ‘tyre blowout. For those who don’t know, tyre blowout refers to a sudden bursting of air from the vehicle’s tyre while it is in motion. While it is a very dangerous situation for the truck and crew inside it, not to mention everyone on the road driving alongside it. To prevent this, it is very crucial to know why truck tyre blowout happens.
That’s why, Amigo Tyres - trusted for the best truck wheels in Rocklea - decided to write an extensive guide explaining 8 reasons for truck tyre blowouts. Read on!
Underinflation
One of the leading causes of a truck tyre blowout is underinflation. When a tyre is not properly inflated, it generates excessive heat during operations. This heat buildup weakens the tire’s structure and can ultimately lead to a blowout. Regularly checking and maintaining proper tire pressure is a simple yet effective way to prevent underinflation-related blowouts.
Overloading
Overloading a truck beyond the capacity mentioned by the manufacturing company causes immense stress on the truck tyre leading to a truck blowout. Excessive weight on the truck leads to an increase in heat generation and accelerates wear and tear, making the tyre more susceptible to blowouts. Fleet managers should ensure that vehicles are loaded within their specific weight limits, adhering to safety regulations.
Neglecting regular tyre maintenance is a recipe for disaster. Lack of inspections, rotations, and alignment can result in weekend tire structure and increased vulnerability to blowouts. Establishing a comprehensive maintenance schedule that includes regular tyre checks can reduce the risk of truck tyre blowouts.
Road Hazards
Road conditions also play a vital role in maintaining truck tyre health. Potholes and uneven surfaces can cause damage to tyres, leading to blowouts. Drivers should be vigilant and avoid obstacles whenever possible. Additionally, fleet managers can contribute to safety by planning routers that minimize exposure to road hazards.
Excessive heat, often caused by prolonged driving or high-speed operations, can compromise tire integrity. Continuous driving without breaks can elevate tire temperatures, increasing the likelihood of blowouts. Drivers should be educated on the importance of taking breaks during long journeys to allow tires to cool down and reduce the risk of overheating.
Old or Worn Tires
Tires have a limited lifespan, and using old or excessively worn tires significantly raises the risk of blowouts. Regularly inspecting tire tread depth and replacing tires as needed is essential for preventing blowouts caused by worn-out treads. Implementing a proactive tire replacement policy is a wise investment in long-term safety.
Mismatched Tires
Using tires with different sizes or mismatched specifications on the same axle can lead to uneven wear and stress. This creates an imbalance that may result in blowouts. Fleet managers should ensure that all tires on a given axle are identical in size, load-carrying capacity, and speed rating to maintain optimal performance and safety.
Manufacturing Defects
In some cases, tire blowouts can be attributed to manufacturing defects. These defects may include flaws in the tire's construction, materials, or design. Regularly checking for recalls and staying informed about the quality of the tires being used is crucial for minimizing the risk of blowouts due to manufacturing issues.
Truck Tyre Blowouts: Endnotes
To minimize the risk of truck tire blowouts, it's crucial to regularly inspect and maintain tires, adhere to load capacity guidelines, drive at reasonable speeds, and replace tires when they show signs of wear or aging. Regular monitoring and addressing potential issues promptly can help ensure the safety and reliability of a truck's tires.
Got any queries to ask? Contact us today to have them answered by our tyre experts!