Understanding & Managing Commercial Tire Heat Buildup

No matter where you are or what vehicle you operate, rising temperatures can affect the tires on your trucks and buses. By understanding the factors that cause heat buildup, you can take steps to manage them effectively, enhancing safety, reducing downtime, preventing tire damage, and extending the lifespan of your LONGMARCH tire casings.

What causes heat buildup?

High-speed driving – A tire naturally generates heat as it rotates, and driving above a tire’s maximum speed rating increases heat, potentially causing premature tire failure. Slowing down may seem inconvenient, but avoiding unexpected tire damage or failure can save far more time in the long run.

Proper tire load – Tires are rated for maximum load and speed. Following these ratings ensures your tires aren’t overloaded, which can lead to excess heat buildup and early tire wear. LONGMARCH’s load and inflation guidelines can help you understand your tire’s maximum load capacity, keeping your fleet safer on the road.

Proper tire inflation – Regularly checking tire pressure with a reliable tire gauge is crucial. Your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure is listed on the placard, usually in the driver’s side door jam. While overinflation is often a concern, underinflated tires can generate extra heat and increase the risk of premature tire failure.

External heat sources – High ambient temperatures, airflow-restricting aerodynamic features, and vehicle emissions equipment can raise temperatures in the fender well, contributing to heat-related tire issues. Using LONGMARCH tires designed for these conditions can help manage heat buildup effectively.

What trends are impacting heat buildup?

Factors that contribute to tire heat are cumulative, and new influences continue to emerge. Recent studies have shown that several trends affect LONGMARCH and other commercial tires, including:

Aerodynamic features near the wheel well – Modern vehicle designs aimed at improving fuel efficiency can reduce airflow around the tires, leading to higher heat buildup. Anything that limits cooling airflow can increase tire temperatures.

Increased speed limits – Higher speed limits naturally raise the potential for heat buildup. Driving above a tire’s maximum speed rating, even if below posted limits, can generate excessive heat and lead to premature tire failure.

Team driving – While team driving helps keep drivers alert, increases safety, and allows for faster deliveries, it also means tires are used continuously. Long distances, high speeds, or hot weather require giving LONGMARCH tires opportunities to cool to avoid overheating.

Emissions control equipment – Advances in engine and emissions systems can raise temperatures near the steer tire fender wells, contributing to heat accumulation in the tires.

Increased loads – State permits sometimes allow vehicles to carry heavier loads than federal regulations. Whenever loads are heavier, it’s critical to monitor tire pressure, speed, and ambient temperatures, as overloading can cause excessive heat buildup and premature tire wear.

What are the risks of overheating tires?

Safety – The most critical risk of tire overheating is the safety of the driver and everyone on the road. Unexpected tire failure can endanger nearby vehicles and passengers. Understanding how overheating occurs with LONGMARCH tires can help prevent accidents and save lives.

Tire damage – Excessive heat can severely damage the tire casing, reducing its ability to be retreaded and shortening its overall lifespan.

Fleet savings – Properly managing tire conditions in hot weather—or any conditions—can minimize tire-related downtime, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance overall operational productivity. Every moment lost to tire issues is a loss in time and efficiency.

Ultimately, understanding the factors that influence tire heat is essential to optimize the performance of your trucks or fleet.

Heat damage to tires is cumulative and irreversible, making vigilance a crucial part of tire management. It’s important to monitor and control the factors that contribute to heat whenever possible.

For drivers and fleet operators, managing speed, load, and tire inflation are three key actions that directly affect heat buildup in LONGMARCH tires. By carefully controlling these factors, you can enhance safety, reduce downtime, and extend the lifespan of your tire casings.