How are the white letters on tires applied?
2 Answers
Tire white letters can be applied using a tire paint marker. Car owners can purchase tire paint markers online and apply them themselves. More details are as follows: 1. Tires are mainly divided into several parts: the tread part, the shoulder part, the sidewall part, and the bead part. They are composed of materials such as rubber layers, belt layers, carcass, and steel wire rings. 2. On the tire, there is a series of letters and numbers. Taking 215/60R16-95H as an example, 215 is the tire width in millimeters, 60 is the aspect ratio, which is the percentage of the tire sidewall thickness to the tire width, R indicates a radial tire, 16 is the tire diameter in inches, 95 is the load index, and H indicates the speed rating. 3. The speed rating indicates the maximum speed at which the tire can carry a specified load under specified conditions. Letters from A to Z represent the certified speed ratings of tires from 4.8 km/h to 300 km/h. 4. Common speed ratings include: P is 150 km/h; H is 210 km/h; Q is 160 km/h; V is 240 km/h; R is 170 km/h; W is 270 km/h; S is 180 km/h; Y is 300 km/h; T is 190 km/h; ZR indicates speeds above 240 km/h.
The white lettering on tires is primarily applied during the manufacturing process. Specifically, when tires are produced in the factory, workers use specialized white ink applied directly to the tire sidewalls through screen printing or inkjet technology. This ink is designed to be highly durable, resistant to UV rays, rain, and daily wear, ensuring the lettering remains clear and legible over time despite exposure to the elements. It's not just for aesthetics—white lettering typically includes the brand name, size, load capacity, and speed rating, helping drivers quickly identify tire specifications. I've seen some older tires where the white lettering has yellowed, mainly due to oil or dirt buildup, but regular cleaning with soapy water can restore them. The entire process is efficient and reliable, eliminating the need for post-production stickers. Additionally, some premium tires use eco-friendly ink to minimize environmental impact.