A tractor or trolley tipping over is a common sight in India, and it's also an operator's worst nightmare. Not only does it pose a risk of injury or a fatal mishap, but it also results in the loss or wastage of produce or product. In most such cases, tyre or suspension failure is the cause of these mishaps.

As an authority on farm tyres in India, today we are taking time to explore one of the most overlooked causes of tractor tyre blowouts in India – temperature.

Ambient and Tyre Temperature

When we say temperature, we are referring to both the outside temperature, caused by changing weather patterns, and the tyre's temperature, which changes based on the tread condition, inflation levels, and weight. Let’s start with the changes in outside weather first.

Effect of Weather on Your Tractor Tyres

The ambient temperature fluctuates throughout the day and with changing seasons. This change can have a direct impact on the performance of your tractor tyres. Because, like all rubber and plastic elements, the compounds in a tyre are also prone to thermal expansion or contraction.

With temperatures in North India reaching 50°C or higher in some parts, the impact on your farm tyres can be significant. As the tyre heats up, the air inside also expands and can lead to an unexpected blowout if not adjusted accordingly.

Over-Inflation Causes Problems Like:

• Harsher ride and increased user fatigue

• Loss of braking efficiency

• Reduced traction on paved surfaces

• Uneven tyre wear

Similarly, during winters, the air and the tyre rubber may contract and cause under-inflation. And if the tractor is being driven with a heavy load or in high-stress applications, the tyres may fail.

Under-Inflation in Tractor Tyres Results In:

• Loss of tractor or trolley stability

• Increased fuel consumption

• Reduced pulling power

• Permanent damage to tyre sidewalls

Therefore, it is important to carry a pressure monitoring gauge in your farm toolkit and keep a check on tyre pressure if you notice the vehicle or the carriage behaving oddly.

Mitigating the Impact of Outside Temperature Changes on Your Tractor Tyres:

• Adjust Tyre Pressure for Temperature: Air pressure increases with temperature. In hot weather, slightly reduce tyre pressure (within the manufacturer's recommended range) to account for expansion. In cold weather, slightly increase pressure to compensate for contraction. Never exceed the maximum pressure listed on the tyre sidewall.

• Park the Vehicle in Shade: When not in use, park the vehicle in shade, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

• Use Tyre Protectant: Applying a tyre protectant can help prevent cracking and damage caused by UV rays and ozone, especially in hot, sunny climates.

• Monitor Tyre Temperature: Consider using a tyre temperature gauge, especially during extended operations in extreme heat, to monitor tyre temperature and avoid overheating.

• Choose Tyres with Appropriate Heat Resistance: If operating frequently in hot climates, consider investing in tyres designed for higher temperatures.

Increase in Tyre Temperature Due to Internal Factors

Farm equipment often does not receive the same level of maintenance and care as a private vehicle like a car or an SUV. In most cases, tractor tyres are not replaced until they become threadbare. This is either due to the user’s negligence or monetary concerns. But such negligence can lead to larger safety and economic losses.

• A worn-out tractor tyre will be prone to slipping or spinning, which heats up the tyre surface and the air inside it, thus leading to the same pitfalls we have seen with a rise in ambient temperature.

• The situation may become even more dangerous when an unkept tractor tyre is ridden in extreme heat or biting cold. The hot weather will increase the effects of hot weather on the bare-bones tyre manyfold. Whereas the tyre will become more prone to slippage in cold weather due to the presence of dew or an icy layer on hard surfaces.

Effect of Overloading on Tyre Temperature

Overloaded tractors and trolleys are a major safety hazard on the road, and their tyres and axles are in the most danger of failure. Lugging around excessive load requires more friction to move the vehicles and thus generates more thermal energy. This, then, leads to premature tyre failure in high-stress scenarios.

Preventing Tractor Tyres from Overheating Due to Mechanical or Maintenance Related Reasons:

• Maintain Proper Inflation: Both overinflation and under-inflation can increase heat buildup. Check tyre pressure regularly, especially before and after extended use, and adjust according to the manufacturer's recommendations and the load being carried.

• Reduce Speed: Higher speeds generate more friction and heat. Operate the tractor at appropriate speeds, especially when carrying heavy loads or operating on hard surfaces.

• Avoid Overloading: Excess weight puts extra strain on the tyres, leading to increased friction and heat generation. Adhere to the tractor's weight limits.

• Regular Breaks: During extended operations, especially in hot weather, allow the tyres to cool down by taking periodic breaks. This is especially important for heavy-duty tasks like plowing or tilling.

• Check for Proper Alignment and Balance: Misalignment and imbalance can cause uneven wear and increased friction, contributing to heat buildup.

• Use the Correct Tyre Type: Ensure the tyres are appropriate for the terrain and application. Using road tyres on fields, for example, will increase heat generation.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, maintaining optimal tractor tyre performance requires vigilance and proactive care, especially given India's challenging climate. By understanding the impact of both external temperatures and internal factors like wear and overloading, operators can take appropriate measures to mitigate risks. Regularly monitoring and adjusting tyre pressure, along with adopting mindful operating practices, can significantly reduce the chances of blowouts, improve safety, and ultimately contribute to a more productive and profitable farming operation.

Don't underestimate the power of proper tyre maintenance—it's an investment that pays off in the long run.