How the Tyre Sealant Works
HOW?
As the tyre rotates, the product spreads evenly over the inside surface. Immediately a penetration occurs, the air pressure in the tyre forces millions of fibre particles and fillers suspended either in ethylene or propylene glycol to interlock which plugs the hole in the tread area preventing any further air loss within one or two revolutions of the wheel.
This action is so rapid that the driver may not know a puncture has happened. Later, when the tyre is inspected, if the cause is still present it can be removed. When removed, the vehicle must be driven immediately to enable the tyre to re-seal itself.
Depending on the grade of Sealant used, holes up to 30 mm (1¼ inches) can be repaired using this technology.
WHY?
Fibres
Fibres constitute the backbone of the tyre sealant. The stronger
the fibres, the stronger the tyre repair. The strongest fibres are state-of-the-art
synthetic fibres such as those used in tyre cord and bullet proof vests.
Using a variety of fibres is also very important, especially in the
relatively thin carcass of an ATV, golf buggy or lawn care equipment
tyre. The more varied the fibres in both length and degree of branching,
the faster the seal forms and the more permanent the seal is.
Fillers
Once a strong plug is formed by the fibres, the final seal is provided
by filler particles which lodge between the fibres to form an effective
airtight plug. The use of these fillers is imperative for a high performance
sealant.
Suspension stability
The function of the liquid in the sealant formulation is the medium
by which the fibres and fillers reach the area of the puncture in the
tyre. In some sealant formulations, the components may separate over
a period when the tyre is inactive. If separation does occur, such formulations
will fail as tyres sealants.
Air-Seal high performance sealants will not separate to ensure protection for the legal life of the tyre.