What is the New Type of Non-Pneumatic Tire?
3 Answers
Non-pneumatic tires are airless tires. Airless tires refer to tires that achieve shock absorption and cushioning performance without relying on air pressure. Pneumatic tires use rubber to seal pressurized air; when the air is compressed, the collision of air molecules against the container walls becomes more intense, leading to an increase in air pressure and forming macroscopic elasticity. The characteristics of pneumatic tires include cushioning performance and low rolling resistance. Advantages of non-pneumatic tires: Non-pneumatic tires are puncture-proof, have good elasticity, are wear-resistant, have low rolling resistance, and a service life more than three times that of pneumatic tires. The inner side of the tire is equipped with a heat exchanger, which allows automatic exchange of hot and cold air inside and outside the tire body, effectively reducing the tire body's temperature and significantly delaying tire aging. Non-pneumatic tires completely solve the problems of traditional pneumatic tires, such as air leakage and blowouts. They are suitable for various vehicles, including bicycles, electric bicycles, golf carts, children's bikes, elderly scooters, medical equipment vehicles, and motorized assistive vehicles. Disadvantages of non-pneumatic tires: The noise and comfort of non-pneumatic tires still need improvement. (Tire noise is generated by the friction between the tire and the road surface when the vehicle is driving at high speed. The level of noise depends on road and vehicle conditions; the worse the road condition, the greater the noise. Additionally, there is a significant difference in noise between asphalt and concrete road surfaces.) High cost: Due to the use of the latest technology, the manufacturing cost is much higher than that of traditional tires, and the appearance is less appealing. Poor comfort: They are prone to bumpiness during driving, which also increases resistance, resulting in poor vehicle comfort. Low load capacity and speed limitations: Due to the internal support structure, these tires cannot bear heavy loads or high speeds. Vulnerable support structure: Since the support structure is exposed and the structural strength of these polymer materials is not as strong as imagined, once foreign objects enter the tire, the support structure will inevitably be damaged.
I just replaced my bike tires with these airless ones a couple of days ago - so worry-free! The tires have this honeycomb-shaped special plastic structure inside, completely eliminating the need for inflation. No more puncture worries. Though the ride feels a bit bumpy - the manufacturer says it's because the support structure is harder than air. Currently mainly used in construction vehicles and golf carts, automotive applications are still in testing. Heard Michelin plans mass production next year. The biggest advantage is no fear of blowouts - much safer. But the road noise is noticeably louder, and you really feel the bumps when going over obstacles.
This type of tire relies entirely on its internal structure for support, such as the polyurethane spoke design used by Michelin, which offers excellent elasticity. I've studied its principle, and it's completely different from traditional tires, as it doesn't require sealed gas pressure. Currently, it's most commonly used in construction machinery and mobility scooters. Even if punctured by a nail, it won't go flat instantly. However, the resistance is slightly higher at high speeds, which might increase fuel consumption. A friend at the repair shop mentioned that while its lifespan is indeed longer, the entire tire needs to be replaced when it's time for a change.
