OOSC, Parte II, Punto 11. Neumáticos - Investigación de sobreinflado

The S2. Tire and Wheel Study Group with TMC was contacted to determine if this is an issue. They provided the committee with information that indicated it is quite normal for tires that have been operating for hours over the road to become hot. Add in hot, summer ambient temperatures and tire temperatures will get hotter and increase 15-20 psi. Many fleets are inflating their tires between 110 and 120 psi so adding another 15-20 pounds due to operating heat would easily make these tires 135-140 psi. This is not a concern to inspectors and should not be a violation. Tires are built to handle the increases in inflation pressure caused by operating temperatures. What they are not built for are the increased temperatures and flexing that occurs when tires are run underinflated. When this type of heat builds up in a tire, components (i.e. belts, sidewalls and beads) come apart and spray rubber and steel all over the highway. Overinflated tires due to operating heat buildup will not come apart. If tires are overinflated cold above the maximum inflation pressure listed on the sidewall (usually 120-130 psi), and pressure increases due to operating temperature in the 150-160 psi range, then there would be a problem. But this is highly unlikely.

A representative from Michelin was present at the meeting and agreed with the TMC response. It was determined that the issue would be closed and no further action is necessary.