Run Flat

A run-flat tire is a special type of car tire that can keep going even after a puncture. It resists deflation, allowing you to drive the vehicle at lower speeds for a short distance. Michelin, a tire manufacturer, created the first run-flat tires in the 1930s. Since then, these tires have become more and more popular among drivers.

Self-supporting Run-Flat tires

In 1935, tire manufacturers introduced a new type of tire called the self-supporting run-flat tire. This tire had a fabric inner tire and aimed to prevent blowouts, which were common and dangerous back then. Michelin, a leading tire manufacturer, played a significant role in developing these tires.

The technology used in these tires was based on innovations for local commuter trains and trolleys. The tire had a safety rim, which allowed it to continue running on a special foam lining after a puncture. These tires were primarily marketed for military use and specialized vehicles like armored cars used by banks. They were even promoted as being "semi-bulletproof."

However, these tires were quite expensive, making them impractical for most private car owners. As a result, they did not gain widespread popularity among the general public at that time. Nevertheless, the introduction of run-flat tires laid the foundation for further advancements in tire technology, eventually leading to more accessible and affordable options for consumers.

Self-supporting run-flat tires are common on light trucks and passenger cars. They allow driving for about 50 miles at speeds around 50 mph after a puncture. However, misuse can damage the wheels and repairs may be impossible or unsafe, especially for sidewall or tread edge punctures. These tires are heavier, resulting in a 20-40% weight penalty, and have higher rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy.

Self-sealing and Auxiliary-supported Run-Flat tires

Self-sealing tires have an additional lining that self-seals small holes caused by nails or screws, preventing air loss and enabling permanent self-repair or slow air loss. Retrofitted tire sealants work similarly by being injected through the valve. This distributes a compound onto the tire's inner surface to create a self-sealing lining.

Next, the "Auxiliary-supported" system includes an extra support ring or insert connected to the wheel, capable of bearing the vehicle's weight if there is a loss of tire pressure. This run-flat insert is highly effective in carrying heavy loads over long distances at high speeds. As a result, it is suitable for military vehicles, executive protection vehicles, and armored vehicles utilized by government entities, aid groups, or private contractors in conflict areas.

Using run-flat tires offers the primary advantage of maintaining mobility, even if a puncture causes a loss of air pressure while the vehicle is traveling at high speed. The key performance factors are the distance the vehicle can travel and the speed at which it can escape without becoming immobilized, while also ensuring good steering control throughout the process.

The most popular Run-Flat tires

Run-flat tires have gained significant popularity by providing continued mobility even after a loss of air pressure. Here are a few examples of the most popular run-flat tires and their standout features:

  • Bridgestone DriveGuard Run Flat: Known for its durability, the DriveGuard provides a comfortable ride and reliable performance, while also offering extended mobility after a puncture.
  • Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season: This tire combines all-season versatility with run-flat technology, delivering enhanced grip, fuel efficiency, and a quiet driving experience.
  • Goodyear Eagle LS-2 ROF: Offering a comfortable ride and extended mobility, the Eagle LS-2 RunOnFlat tire excels in providing consistent performance and reliable traction in various weather conditions.

These popular run-flat tires provide the safety net of continued mobility. Also, they deliver exceptional performance, durability, and handling characteristics, making them a top choice for drivers seeking peace of mind.

A run-flat tire is a special type of car tire that can keep going even after a puncture. It resists deflation, allowing you to drive the vehicle at lower speeds for a short distance. Michelin, a tire manufacturer, created the first run-flat tires in the 1930s. Since then, these tires have become more and more popular among drivers.

Self-supporting Run-Flat tires

In 1935, tire manufacturers introduced a new type of tire called the self-supporting run-flat tire. This tire had a fabric inner tire and aimed to prevent blowouts, which were common and dangerous back then. Michelin, a leading tire manufacturer, played a significant role in developing these tires.

The technology used in these tires was based on innovations for local commuter trains and trolleys. The tire had a safety rim, which allowed it to continue running on a special foam lining after a puncture. These tires were primarily marketed for military use and specialized vehicles like armored cars used by banks. They were even promoted as being "semi-bulletproof."

However, these tires were quite expensive, making them impractical for most private car owners. As a result, they did not gain widespread popularity among the general public at that time. Nevertheless, the introduction of run-flat tires laid the foundation for further advancements in tire technology, eventually leading to more accessible and affordable options for consumers.

Self-supporting run-flat tires are common on light trucks and passenger cars. They allow driving for about 50 miles at speeds around 50 mph after a puncture. However, misuse can damage the wheels and repairs may be impossible or unsafe, especially for sidewall or tread edge punctures. These tires are heavier, resulting in a 20-40% weight penalty, and have higher rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy.

Self-sealing and Auxiliary-supported Run-Flat tires

Self-sealing tires have an additional lining that self-seals small holes caused by nails or screws, preventing air loss and enabling permanent self-repair or slow air loss. Retrofitted tire sealants work similarly by being injected through the valve. This distributes a compound onto the tire's inner surface to create a self-sealing lining.

Next, the "Auxiliary-supported" system includes an extra support ring or insert connected to the wheel, capable of bearing the vehicle's weight if there is a loss of tire pressure. This run-flat insert is highly effective in carrying heavy loads over long distances at high speeds. As a result, it is suitable for military vehicles, executive protection vehicles, and armored vehicles utilized by government entities, aid groups, or private contractors in conflict areas.

Using run-flat tires offers the primary advantage of maintaining mobility, even if a puncture causes a loss of air pressure while the vehicle is traveling at high speed. The key performance factors are the distance the vehicle can travel and the speed at which it can escape without becoming immobilized, while also ensuring good steering control throughout the process.

The most popular Run-Flat tires

Run-flat tires have gained significant popularity by providing continued mobility even after a loss of air pressure. Here are a few examples of the most popular run-flat tires and their standout features:

  • Bridgestone DriveGuard Run Flat: Known for its durability, the DriveGuard provides a comfortable ride and reliable performance, while also offering extended mobility after a puncture.
  • Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season: This tire combines all-season versatility with run-flat technology, delivering enhanced grip, fuel efficiency, and a quiet driving experience.
  • Goodyear Eagle LS-2 ROF: Offering a comfortable ride and extended mobility, the Eagle LS-2 RunOnFlat tire excels in providing consistent performance and reliable traction in various weather conditions.

These popular run-flat tires provide the safety net of continued mobility. Also, they deliver exceptional performance, durability, and handling characteristics, making them a top choice for drivers seeking peace of mind.

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