Construction and Behaviour Characteristics of Tyres

Abstract

Development of automobile tyres over the past few years has led to certain improved performance characteristics and also to a wider choice of tyre behaviour patterns than has earlier been the case. To obtain optimum required performance characteristics for a particular vehicle design, attention must be paid both to individual tyre parameters and their interaction with particular features relating to the vehicle. Examples are given. The impact of new materials for making tyres and of constructional variations in the tyres is discussed in relation to improved tyre performance characteristics, including comfort, road adhesion, ease of control, high-speed running, tread pattern life, noise and tyre power consumption. Testing techniques which have assisted in assessment of some of these items are discussed, with illustrative results. The relative effects of mechanical and tyre variables are summarized. Reference is made to future trends in requirements of automobile tyre behaviour and possible consequent changes in tyre construction and form.