Tread Components
Tread Design
The tread is the part of the tire that contacts the pavement.
The correct choice of tread design for a specific application
can mean the difference between a satisfied or dissatisfied
customer.
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A proper tread design:
- Improves Traction
- Improves Handling
- Increases Durability
Tread design also affects other customer concerns such as:
- Ride Comfort
- Noise Level
- Fuel Efficiency
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Sipes
Small, slit-like grooves in tread blocks that allow the blocks
to move more. This added flexibility increases traction by
creating an additional biting edge. Sipes are especially helpful
on ice, light snow and loose dirt.
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Blocks
Those segments making up a tire's tread. The primary function of
tread blocks is to provide traction.
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Ribs
The straight-lined row of blocks that create a circumferential
contact "band."
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Dimples
Indentations in the tread that improve cooling.
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Shoulder
Provides continuous contact with the road while maneuvering.
Shoulders wrap slightly over the inner and outer sidewall of
a tire.
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Void Ratio
The amount of open space in the tread. A low void ratio means
more rubber is in contact with the road. A high void ratio increases
the ability to drain water. Whether a tire has a high or low void
ratio depends on the tire's intended use.
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Grooving
Used to create voids for better water channeling on wet road
surfaces. It is the most efficient means of channeling water
from in front to behind the tire. By designing grooves
circumferentially, water has less distance to be channeled.
Circumferential grooves provide the shortest distance from the
front to the rear edges of the contact patch.
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Tire Life
There are many factors to consider when researching and developing
a tread design—steering response, cornering power, traction,
stability, noise and treadwear are but a few. The aesthetics of
the tread design are also a big factor. Many customers base much
of their purchase decision on tread appearance.
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Asymmetrical Tread Pattern
The tread pattern changes across the face of the tire. Usually
incorporates larger tread blocks on the outer portion for increased
stability during cornering. The smaller inner blocks aid in
dissipating water.
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Unidirectional tread pattern
Designed to rotate in only one direction, unidirectional tires
enhance straight-line acceleration by reducing rolling resistance.
The also provide shorter stopping distance. Unidirectional tires
must be dedicated to a specific side of the vehicle. Care must be
taken when rotating unidirectional tires to ensure that the
repositioned tire rotates in the correct direction.
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Symmetrical tread pattern
Consistent across the tire's face. Both halves of the treadface
are the same design.
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Tread Design and Wet Road Conditions
Both block and rib tread patterns are used in street-tire design.
Grooves are used to create voids within the tread face for better
water channeling on wet road surfaces. The most efficient means of
channeling water is circumferentially around the tire. It is the
shortest distance between the front and rear edge of the contact
patch. However, lateral grooves help break up the wedge of water
that forms at higher speeds. This reduces the chance of
hydroplaning and increases the tire's contact with the road.
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