Difference Between TPR Wheels and Rubber Wheels?
2 Answers
TPR tires are tire products that do not require high wear resistance or strength, whereas rubber tires used in vehicles demand high load-bearing capacity, wear resistance, and mechanical strength. Here is additional information: TPR tires: Primarily used for casters, cart wheels, and toy tires where load-bearing capacity and wear resistance strength requirements are not very high. They are typically made of pure TPR material or a composite of TPR with other materials like PP or ABS through injection molding. Rubber tires: Usually vulcanized rubber tires, used for various vehicle tires. Due to the high demands on load-bearing capacity, wear resistance, and mechanical strength, the material requirements for these tires are stringent. Besides vulcanization, materials like steel wires and nylon fabric are incorporated into rubber tire products to enhance impact resistance and anti-burst performance.
I recently replaced the wheels on my car, switching from rubber to TPR material, and the difference is noticeable. Rubber wheels are softer, providing less vibration when going over speed bumps and higher comfort, but they tend to crack over time, especially after prolonged exposure to sunlight, which accelerates aging. TPR, a thermoplastic rubber, combines the hardness of plastic with the elasticity of rubber. Its advantages include excellent wear resistance—mine show almost no wear after months on rough roads—and lower production costs, as they can be quickly molded using injection molding. However, TPR's rebound isn't as good as pure rubber, making steering feel slightly stiffer. While it's less prone to deformation in high temperatures, it can become brittle in cold conditions. Overall, TPR is a durable and hassle-free choice for city driving, whereas rubber performs better on long, bumpy trips for comfort. Regularly checking wheel condition is crucial—don't wait until they fail to replace them.
