Are There Different Types Of Tyre Constructions?

When it comes to tyre structure, there are two main types. These are cross-ply and radial. But what does this mean? In this article, we are going to be taking you through what the difference in each construction is and their varying types of tread designs.

Cross-Ply

When a tyre has been manufactured with a cross-ply construction, this means it’s nylon chords have been crossed diagonally over each other. These chords are then layered with thick rubber piles. This provides the tyre with tough, rigid sidewalls to protect the tyre. Whilst cross-ply tyres are tough and provide higher resistance against sidewall damage, they possess a higher rolling resistance. This can cause the tyres to heat up quickly increasing the air pressure within the tyres. 

Radial

So what is the radial construction? Radial construction is one that has developed alongside the development of tyre technology. Radial is known to be more of a flexible tyre. They are constructed with chords that have been rubber bonded and strategically placed so that they run across the circumference of the whole tyre. The radial piles are then covered in a casing, usually made from steel or chords, and then covered totally by the rubber tread. Radial tyres are a popular choice when motorists are looking for a tyre that offers greater comfort, water and heat resistance, as well as improved fuel economy. 

There are many individual elements that make up these two different types of constructions. These include the tread and sidewall, and more. 

Tread

The tyre tread is a rubber compound that overlays the construction of the entire tyre. As the tread covers the circumference of the tyre, it is the only part of the tyre that is in contact with the road at all times and can be designed in multiple ways, depending on the needs of the vehicle and the driver. All tread patterns have a legal limit of 1.6mm. They are all designed and developed for performance in varying driving conditions. Despite a legal limit of 1.6mm, braking distances are much shorter on tyres with a higher tread depth making them a safer choice, especially on wet roads. Find out further tyre safety information in our Global Collisions Comparison.

Chafer 

The chafer is evident in both cross-ply tyres and radial tyres. On cross-ply tyres, the chafer is a lining between the body of the tyre and the rim. This prevents the tyres from chafing and wearing down. In radial tyres, the chafer works as added reinforcement that strengthens the tyre and converts the forces from the torque.

Ply

The ply is similarly composed of nylon piles or steel chords and is there to confine the pressure of the tyres. The ply absorbs any braking or steering shocks whilst driving. This provides the driver with a more comfortable and quieter ride.