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Learn how to check your tire tread with this life hack from Bridgestone

2019-08-01

Runflat Tyres

Runflat Technology

Runflat Monitoring

Runflat Range

Runflat FAQ

Runflat Fast Facts

Runflat Tyres

Introducing Bridgestone Runflat tyres

Runflat tyres (RFT) represent the latest in a long line of safety initiatives being made available today. Safety has become something of a catch cry for a society which has become less accepting of the trauma associated with all manner of accidents. The value of developing and adopting new technologies to keep us safe is well recognised. Furthermore, consumers have demonstrated a willingness to pay a premium for safety features they understand. Just as anti-lock brake systems, traction control, stability control and air bags have trickled down from upper models to base models, the very same is expected of RFT.

What of the humble tyre? Arguably the most important component on a car, the tyre provides the sole point of contact between car and road and serves to transmit all driving forces. Although not clearly quantified, tyres are thought to play some role in a significant portion of all motor vehicle

accidents. Consider the safety advantages offered by Bridgestone RFT. In the event of a sudden deflation, vehicle stability and therefore driver control are significantly increased. The risks associated with changing tyres at the roadside should also not be underestimated. Changing tyres at the side of a narrow highway on sloping ground at night and in driving rain with semi-trailers steaming past at 100km/h is no less disconcerting.>

RFT also provides more comfort and convenience for the motorist. Within the specified speed and distance limits (typically 80 km/h for up to 80 km), the driver can either complete their journey or travel to the next qualified service station without the worry of changing a flat tyre. This means vehicle occupants can continue travelling to important meetings or events even when tyres are totally deflated.

Runflat Technology

Technology Behind Bridgestone RFT

Runflat Technology increases the tyre's rigidity and heat resistance so that the tyre can support weight while rotating in a deflated state. Bridgestone's new RFT tyres meet this challenge by combining design, materials and construction changes that optimise 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. The bead shape itself is unchanged, so that the Bridgestone RFT tyre is compatible with conventional rims. However, the bundle of bead wires is more substantial, ensuring a secure fit on the rim even at zero pressure, and a special bead filler compound minimises the heat generated in this area.

So how do Bridgestone RFT tyres actually work?

Runflat Monitoring

Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)

A TPMS is designed to ensure the driver is aware of deflated Runflat tyres as they don't show the usual outward signs of a deflated tyre, nor does the vehicle lose stability as it would on conventional tyres. All vehicles fitted with Runflat tyres must have a TPMS. There are two main types of TPMS. The first is a sensor based system that directly measures pressure using a sensor inside the tyre, and sends data to a control unit via radio signal.

(1) Sensor based System ( Direct Type )

Advantage:

Direct measurement of actual pressure

Immediate warning, no delay

DisAdvantage:

Complex system, more servicing required

The second type of system uses the ABS of the vehicle to detect if there are relative differences in the rotation of any of the tyres to identify a deflated tyre.

(2) ABS based System (Indirect Type)

Advantage:

This system uses available components of the ABS system

Therefore not complicated, easy to service

DisAdvantage:

Actual pressure is calculated not measured

Delayed low pressure warning

Runflat Range

Bridgestone RFT tyre Range

Currently Bridgestone RFT tyres come in selected sizes of the following two patterns.

Turanza ER300

The new Turanza ER300 is a touring tyre featuring an asymmetric tread pattern.

The ER300 provides high-level balanced performance, with outstanding wet grip without compromising excellent dry handling and stability.

Original Equipment (OE), as well as a "run-flat" version using the latest technology, on selected vehicles.

Potenza RE050 / RE050A

The inner and outer tread design is derived from Bridgestone's winning Formula 1 technology.
It offers outstanding grip and responsive handling in both dry and wet conditions." />

The Potenza RE050 / RE050A is an ultra high-performance tyre incorporating dynamic sporty handling and a quiet, comfortable ride to meet the rigorous demands of prestige vehicle manufacturers.
This tyre is available in both symmetric and asymmetric patterns, as well as a "run-flat" version using the latest technology.

The inner and outer tread design is derived from Bridgestone's winning Formula 1 technology.
It offers outstanding grip and responsive handling in both dry and wet conditions.

Potenza RE040A

The Potenza RE040 is specially suitable for the comfort oriented sports cars. It delivers enhanced wet & dry performance without sacrificing good ride comfort and low pattern noise

Runflat Fast Facts>

Fast Facts about Runflat tyres

You must still check the tyre pressures on your car if you have RFT tyres.

Bridgestone Runflat tyres are typically capable of travelling for a maximum of 80km at 80km/h after a tyre suffers deflation. However, the vehicle manufacturer may specify a different speed or distance for RFT tyres fitted to specific vehicles and owners should consult their vehicle handbook for details.

Bridgestone RFT tyres marked "Do Not Repair" must be replaced if punctured.

RFT tyres should not be fitted to any vehicle that does not come with Runflat tyres as Original Equipment.

wheels and tyres Standard tyres can be fitted to a vehicle with RFT tyres however this is not recommended as Runflat fitted vehicles have been specifically tuned for use with Runflat tyres.

RFT tyres should only be serviced by RFT authorised dealers.

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