Technology Behind the Run Flat Tyre (RFT) & How Does It Work

Runflat Technology increases the tyre's rigidity and heat resistance so that the tyre can support weight while rotating in a deflated state. The new RFT tyres meet this challenge by combining design, materials and construction changes that optimize the location, shape and physical property of each tyre component.

The sidewall is reinforced allowing the tyre to carry the vehicle's weight at zero-pressure. Whilst at present there is no standard defined, regarding the minimum range a RFT tyre can run in a run flat condition, we at tyrestore feel that 80 kms at 80 kmph would be a safe bet.

So how does a RFT tyre work?

A fully inflated RFT tyre and a conventional tyre (Normal Conditions)
Nail insertion the RFT tyre & the conventional tyre (Punctured condition)
At zero pressure the RFT tyre maintains its profile

Repairing of RFT tyres

RFT tyres have specially reinforced sidewalls to enable them to perform, when deflated, for a limited distance and at a restricted speed. The quoted distance and speed permitted under these conditions may vary according to the tyre manufacturer concerned. In the course of running in a totally deflated or significantly under – inflated condition the tyre structure is subjected to high stresses and hence may become weakened and permanently damaged rendering the tyre both unsuitable and unsafe to repair. When a standard tyre is run deflated there are visible symptoms, which indicate that damage to the tyre’s structure has occurred.

However because of the reinforced sidewall structure of a RFT tyre these symptoms associated with use in a deflated or partially inflated condition are likely to be masked and not be visible even if they are present. Even a fully qualified tyre professional may not be able to detect run flat damage on RFT tyres. For this reason, and in the interest of safety, tyrestore does not recommend the repairing of RFT tyres.

Changing a Flat Tyre

Follow these simple instructions to get back on the road quickly and safely.

Tools Required

Stock your car with necessary tools, such as a spare tyre, jack, rod, and spanner . To find their precise location in your car during emergencies, always consult your owner's manual.

Safely Pull Over

Make sure your car is on a level, flat surface before stopping to change a tyre. Always activate the handbrake for safety before starting, and turn on the danger lights to warn other drivers.

Prepare the tyre

Remove the spare tyre and tools from your vehicle. If the vehicle has a hub cap, remove it. Turn the spanner counter clockwise to loosen the nuts/bolts. Do not remove the nuts/bolts.

Jack the vehicle

To find the proper jack position, which is typically just behind the front tyres or ahead of the rear ones, consult your car's owner's manual. Carefully raise the jack until the tyre is about 6 inches off the ground.

Remove the flat tyre

Grab the tyre at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions and pull it off directly after removing the nuts or bolts. Because tyres can be heavy, lift them gently to prevent strain or damage.

Mount the spare tyre

Slide the spare tyre on completely after aligning the holes with the screws or bolts. For equilibrium, tighten each nut in the opposing direction. To avoid damage or an uneven fit, do not overtighten.

Secure the spare tyre

Slowly lower the car. To provide uniform pressure, tighten each nut or bolt once more in the opposite sequence. Before you drive, make sure that all of the nuts and bolts are tight and secure.

Put away the tools

Replace the tools properly and store the flat tyre. Check to make sure that nothing is left behind. Most important – Make sure that the flat tyre is repaired as soon as possible.