Question

Why tyres are filled with air ? Why not solids or liquids?

Answer 1

The most appropriate reason for the inflation of vehicle tyres with air is the thermal insulation and low density of air as a medium.

Though, the heat dissipation characteristics of air as a medium are not good, we can use it for the vehicles running on ground, at considerable speeds.

* Greater speeds will increase the friction at the contact point of the tyre with the road surface. This will increase the temperature of the tyre and air inside it will expand, causing the tyres to explode at higher speeds.

The thickness of the tyre depends upon the heat dissipation characteristics of the tyre material.

Due to the high speed of the aircrafts, there is a danger of tyres getting exploded. Due to it's excellent heat dissipation characteristics, water is used to inflate the tyres of aeroplanes. Water handles everything smoothly.

If the tyres of the vehicles are made out of some light weight solid and not inflated form inside, it would change the slip characteristics of the tyres. The lateral forceand cornering force experienced by the vehicle will also get changed. Rather, it would add instability to the vehicle dynamics.

Rubber provides the best slip characteristics, traction and grip to the tyre, at a lesser cost. For a lighter material of that type, will add to the cost of the vehicle and maintainence will also add expenses.

Some of the suspension effect and rolling resistance come from these inflated tyres, being pressed under pressure. An individual will experience more shocks and will feel less confident while cornering in a vehicle with solid tyres.