Vipal Rubber presents valuable information to help you get the most from your tyres. This month, we look at more examples of treadwear and damage.

Tyres are a significant investment for transport companies, which makes determining the factors that can lead to their demise essential.

Tread lift/separation

Appearance: Tread separated from the protection belt. Belt package is intact.

Probable causes: Adhesion loss between the tread rubber and the tyre casing. Can be caused by tread penetration. Tyre overpressure can aggravate the problem.

Tyre: Remove tyre from service.

Actions: Consult your tyre dealer/retreader to change the tread design to suit the application.

Rib tearing

Appearance: Tear at the base of the main tread grooves. No tread missing.

Probable Causes: Caused by severe localised impacts, hot tyres and sharp turning.

Tyre: Consult your tyre dealer/retreader to repair or retread casing.

Actions: Review driving procedures. Inspect tyres periodically to identify possible tearing at early stage.

Diagonal wear

Appearance: Localised flat spots worn diagonally across the tread, often repeating around the tread circumference.

Probable causes: Runout or out-of-balance, in conjunction with a slow rate of wear. Can also be caused by loose wheel bearings. Aggravated by misalignment.

Tyre: The tyre may be rotated to the outside drive dual position. If wear is excessive, submit to retreader for further options.

Actions: Diagnose cause and correct. Perform periodic maintenance on the vehicle.