Get the most out of your tyres!

Air pressure
The weight of the load is, in most cases, carried by the air, not the tyres themselves. Keeping the right air pressure in your tyres is crucial if you want your tyres to perform to the best of their abilities. The tyre pressure should be set to manufacturer standards and the same applies to the maximum load that would be put on the tyres if you strive to get the best performance out of the tyres.

Low air pressure
Having a low tyre pressure will result in excess deflection in the tyres. The tyres will have an increased surface area and this causes more friction. The increased friction will make the tyre run warmer and will increase your fuel consumption. The increased friction also means the tyre wears out faster, and unevenly at that.

High air pressure
Having a too high tyre pressure will make the tyre too stiff, unable to deflect. This means the tyre endures increased stress and as a result will have a shorter lifespan.
Having a too low or too high air pressure in your tyre will also cause uneven wear on the rubber.

 

 

Take note of the recommended tyre pressure and maximum load the tyres are made for. In harsh conditions, extreme colds or high heats, the air pressure may vary. Not having the right pressure in your tyres does not only cause them to wear quicker, it also makes the tyres less stable under load. While driving, the tyre may not perform as intended and risks are increased. Regularly check the pressure to maintain proper performance and safe working conditions.

 

Friction and heat
Tyres and heat do not mix. During use the tyre will generate a lot of energy through friction and endure the load. This energy will output a lot of heat. When rubber heats up it is more prone to wear. The amount of heat generated is caused by several factors.

Low air pressure in the tires or a load that is too heavy will cause the tyre to have more friction and thus generate more heat.
When a mobile crane is being driven, putting a lot of strain on the tyres will generate great amounts of energy. high speeds, heavy breaking and sharp cornering will result in a great amount of heat in the rubber. But things that are not under your control, like road conditions and the weather have a role in your tyre’s condition.
Keep these things in mind; regularly check the tyre pressure and load, and drive conservatively if you wish to get the most out of your tyres

Vehicle maintenance
The condition in which the crane is kept also has a big influence on the lifespan of the tyres. If the machine does not perform as it should, it can deal a great amount of damage to the tyres.
If the tyres are not properly aligned it will increase the wear of the tyres significantly.
When the suspension is not working properly it will increase the wear on the tyre and also cause it to wear unevenly.

If the crane is leaking fluids it will also influence the tyres. The rubber can suffer from fuel or oil if the leak is close to the tyre and the fluids get onto the rubber. The rubber will absorb the fluid, and this will cause the compound to alter which, in turn, will shorten the life span of the rubber.