Tyres are an integral part of any vehicle and impact safety, performance, fuel efficiency. Like all materials, Tyres in Swindon however, degrade with time on account of a variety of environmental and operational factors. UV rays, ozone, and cooling and heating cycles respectively weaken the rubber and internal parts over time, increasing the probability of cracking, loss of elasticity, and tread separation.
Effects of UV Exposure on Tyre Longevity
Of all tyre degradation causes, prolonged exposure to sunlight is one of the most common. Rubber is made of polymers that the ultraviolet (UV) rays from the Sun break down and break apart, making it brittle and liable to crack. In this process, the rubber compounds are known to undergo photooxidation, in which the rubber compounds lose their flexibility and become hard over time. The edges of tyres hardwick which are often constantly exposed to the sun during hot climates, often develop small cracks on the sidewalls of the tyre. Also referred to as dry rot, this condition does not necessarily point to a worn-out tread but does drastically weaken the tyre’s structural integrity. A tyre’s sidewall cracking stops it from holding air pressure and absorbing shocks from the road, which increases the chances of it bursting suddenly. Vehicles should be parked in shaded areas or garages to minimize UV damage. Moreover, covers for the tyres or sprays that resist UVs can be applied to shield the rubber from too much sun. Slowing down this deterioration can also be achieved by using tyre dressing products that contain anti-UV and anti-ozonant compounds as per regular use.
Ozone Degradation and Its Impact on Tyre Durability
The other major cause of tyre degradation is ozone, which is a highly reactive gas in the atmosphere. Rubber is oxidized and gets microcracked on its surface by the action of ozone. Ozone cracks are also known as small cracks, and they gradually expand, weakening the structural integrity of the tyre. Under static stress (static stress), i.e., while a vehicle is parked for a long time, the effects of ozone degradation are more serious. Under pressure, the rubber in a tyre stretches slightly and becomes more vulnerable to ozone attack. The crack damage is most apparent on the sidewalls as cracks develop even when the tread is intact. Tyres should be stored in a cool, dry place where sources of ozone like electric motors, generators, and industrial equipment are not present. Protective tyre conditioners (containing anti-ozonants) can slow down this oxidation process.
Impact of Repeated Heating and Cooling Cycles on Tyre Structure
Thermal expansion and contraction occurs every time a tyre is used. Friction between a tyre and a road gives rise to heat as the vehicle moves, and increases the volume of the rubber and internal components. The material contracts when it is exposed to colder temperatures or when the vehicle is parked. The final end of this continuous cycle of expansion and contraction occurring in the tyre finally produces stress which breaks down the material, and similarly leads the tyre to fatigue. Road temperatures in hot climates can reach up to 50°C (122°F) which can build up very excessive heat inside the tyre. As the rubber overheats, it speeds up evaporation of essential oils from the rubber, which makes the rubber harder and more brittle. The higher risk of tread separation and sidewall failure arises from this process. Instead, in the cold, tyres become firmer and less flexible. When driving over rough or uneven surfaces, reduced elasticity makes it more likely to crack.
How Tyre Degradation Affects Performance and Safety
Progressive failure of the structural integrity of a tyre causes a number of performance and safety problems. While in wet or slippery conditions, the tyre has less grip on the road as rubber hardens and starts cracking. 'This sudden tyre failure can be dangerous at high speed because the sidewalls and tread can be weak.'. Rubber is hardened, so it reduces the shock absorption, causing a rougher, noisier ride. Tyres that are damaged have higher rolling resistance, so it takes more energy to roll the vehicle, and hence it has lower fuel efficiency. It is important to regularly inspect tyres and check for such visible signs of tyre deterioration as a crack, bulge, or uneven wear pattern to ensure safe driving conditions. However, if you see signs of the tyre aging, make sure that you replace the tyre despite the good tread depth.
Preventive Measures to Extend Tyre Lifespan
Several ways to reduce tyre degradation and stretch their life can be tried. Wear will be prevented by proper storage and parking, as well as by avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and ozone sources. And when storing tyres, they should be done in a cool, dry place away from electrical equipment removing ozone. Yet this type of maintenance, like frequently checking tyres for cracks, bulges, and the wear on the tyre itself, is important. Rotating your tyres would be the first 5,000–8,000 km to ensure even wear and avoid failure prematurely. Reducing rubber degradation can be slowed down by applying tyre protectants with anti-ozonants and UV-resistant formulas. Overloaded and underinflated situations should be avoided, as overloaded vehicles put too much stress on tyres, while underinflated tyres are likely to become too hot. It is crucial to check tyre pressure regularly and keep them at the manufacturer’s recommended levels. A tyre with what seems to be enough tread on the outside should be replaced even after five to seven years, because over time rubber degrades.
