Benefits of Using Run Flat Tyre
I was enjoying driving, the tire suddenly punctured. Of course, no one will be happy if they experience this. Especially if you are on a quiet road far from a tire repair shop.
If you use a Run Flat Tire (RFT), the driver doesn't need to worry too much. A punctured car tire can still be used for a while, giving you the opportunity to find a repair shop or safe tire change location.
RFT is one of the fruits of advances in tire technology. As the name suggests, this type of tire is specifically designed to be able to continue functioning normally when the air pressure in the tire is lost due to a leak.
There are two main types of RFT tire systems, namely Self-Supporting RFT and Support Ring System RFT. In the first system, the tire has a reinforced sidewall construction and will continue to support the vehicle when air loss occurs. Meanwhile, the RFT Support Ring System uses a circle of hard rubber or other material as a structure to withstand the heavy load of the vehicle when the tire is flat.
The material for RFT tires is also specially designed to allow the tires to continue to run for a while. Usually RFT tires can be used in a punctured condition for a maximum distance of 80 km. It's really fun, isn't it?
However, even though they can be used temporarily, RFT tires also have limitations. When an RFT tire loses air pressure, the driver must also limit the car's speed. Car speeds are limited to a maximum of 80 km/hour.
However, not just any car can use RFT tires. The vehicle must have a tire pressure monitoring system or what is known as a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
This system functions to detect and provide information on changes in tire pressure. If the RFT tire air pressure is empty, the TPMS will provide information directly to the driver via the Multi Information Display (MID) or Head Unit screen.
If you don't have TPMS, your car won't be able to use RFT tires. The reason is, the driver may not be aware when his car tire has a leak or the pressure has decreased.
If that happens, the consequences are fatal. RFT tires can be damaged because they are forced to travel further than the maximum distance and speed when punctured. Therefore, if you want to use RFT tires, first make sure the TPMS is installed in the car.
OTHER ADVANTAGES
Aside from being able to be used temporarily when a puncture occurs, RFT tires still have other advantages. These tires tend to be easier to control when the tire pressure decreases. This has a big impact on ensuring driving safety.
These characteristics are possible due to the special design of the RFT tire. The tire wall construction is uniquely designed to be stronger than ordinary tires. Not only that, the special design of RFT tires also makes them safe from the danger of sudden explosions. The risk of a tire exploding can be minimized thanks to the stronger tire material.
To recognize RFT tires, usually there is a special mark on the tire wall that can be used as a benchmark. Often there are writings like DSST or Run on Flat as indicators.
However, if you want to use RFT tires, be prepared to spend more money. The price of RFT tires tends to be around 20% to 30% more expensive than regular tires.
Even so, this is commensurate with the uses and benefits offered. RFT tires allow the car to continue driving for a certain distance when it has a puncture. Very suitable for those who want to ensure personal safety when driving.