How many kilograms can a large vehicle tire carry at 12 psi?
2 Answers
The standard tire pressure for large trucks is usually marked on the tire itself. The load capacity varies depending on the vehicle model and tire type. For example, a steel-belted tire at 12 psi can carry approximately 20 tons, or 20,000 kilograms. Introduction to tire pressure: Tire pressure is an indicator of a vehicle's load capacity. The load a vehicle can carry depends on the tire pressure. According to the relationship between the tire's load index, pressure, and load capacity, higher tire pressure increases load capacity, while lower pressure reduces it. Introduction to tire pressure values: The recommended tire pressure for cargo vehicles should be adjusted appropriately based on the manufacturer's specifications, which can be found in the user manual. It is important to avoid overinflation or underinflation. Additionally, the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure refers to the cold tire pressure, defined as the pressure measured after the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours or driven no more than 2 kilometers.
When setting the tire pressure to 12 bar, the load capacity in kilograms depends on the tire type and size. With nearly two decades of experience driving heavy trucks, I know tire pressure isn't the sole determining factor. For instance, an 18-inch tire on a large truck with a nominal pressure of 8-10 bar typically carries about 1.5 tons. However, at 12 bar—a higher pressure—the theoretical load capacity might increase to around 2 tons, but the risks are significant. In practice, the tire sidewall has a load index label; for example, the number 120 corresponds to a maximum of 1,360 kg. Excessive pressure accelerates wear and may cause blowouts. My advice: don't focus solely on pressure. Adjust based on vehicle weight and road conditions, check pressure regularly when cold, and ensure safe driving. From experience, overloading leads to fines and hazards—always refer to the manual specifications.
