Now that you think about it, you never see red or green tires! Have you ever wondered why car wheels are always black? Why this color exactly? Well, there is indeed a very specific reason behind this aesthetic choice. Especially since this has not always been the case. We tell you everything.
Why do the tires have this carbon black color?
Car tire – Source: spm
You may not know it, but until the end of the 19th century, vehicle tires were all white or light grey. But this white predominance was not very practical. At that time, the roads were not suitable or as functional as they are today. Consequently, the tires were always very dirty. A major inconvenience which was however not going to last, since the famous mark BF Goodrich (specialist of the automobile tires) solved the problem at the beginning of the 20th century. In 1910, carbon extract was added to dye them black, to reduce cleaning and improve the appearance of the wheels. Against all expectations, this initiative was more productive, since this material made the tire five times more resistant.
This standard was then adopted around the world. However, thanks to advanced technologies, some have ventured to manufacture colored tires without compromising their resistance. In the 90s, it was the giant Michelin which tried to market new colors to distinguish itself.
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Unfortunately, success was not forthcoming. Sales were very low. By carrying out a market study, the brand found that consumers were not seduced by these colored wheels, which were considered less attractive than “lampblack”. Although these tires have not completely disappeared from the range of automotive products, it is clear that the color carbon black dominates the market and that drivers have become widely accustomed to them.
Why are the tires made of rubber?
For the record, the tire was first imagined by Robert William Thomson who filed his patent in 1846. But it was still simplistic and very weak. After many evolutions, rubber enters the scene. But, it will be necessary to wait until 1891 to witness the prowess of the Michelin brothers who redoubled their efforts to improve its design and make it perfectly removable. Let us now see how rubber is an essential material for the durability of the tire.
The rubber tires make it easy to grip and stay stable on even the most slippery roads. They thus always remain smooth even if the road is wet. This material has the power to maintain grip no matter how rough the road.
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Longer life and cheaper
The source of synthetic rubber is the sap of the rubber tree. Tire manufacturers associate it with petroleum derivatives, butadiene and styrene. This ultimate combination creates a product that is less expensive. As a bonus, the tire is more maneuverable and rebounds more easily.
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Ability to carry a load
Since rubber is a viscoelastic material, tires also have the advantage of supporting heavy loads. Manufacturers combine rubber with the powers of compressed air to achieve even stronger and more durable wheels. This allows the vehicle to carry more loads without too much pressure and maintaining perfect grip on the road. Finally, the rubber is soft and thus creates less noise on the road.
Good to know : the composition of the tire is made of natural and synthetic rubber. Natural rubber comes from latex, so it is more expensive and expensive to manufacture. In contrast, synthetic rubber is prepared with different polymers which are nothing but petroleum derivatives.
Changing the car tire – Source: spm
In addition to seasonal changes, you must take into consideration several criteria to replace your tires.
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Tread wear
There is a popular test that is very easy to do to diagnose the condition of the tire and identify possible wear. Insert a 2 euro coin into the main groove of the tire. If you notice that the outer silver edge (approximately 3mm) slides in easily, then all is well, your wheel is still operational. On the other hand, if the metal edge of the part remains clearly visible, you should consider changing the tire quickly.
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Exposure to the elements
When tires are exposed to high heat and ultraviolet rays from the sun, it can cause structural changes to your tires.
Of course, tires also have an expiry date. Most manufacturers recommend replacing them after 10 years. But, it is important to always check the manufacturer’s recommendations on your specific tires. It is not uncommon to have to change them periodically.
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