Radial Tires, Construction
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle, 2015 Volkswagen Beetle, 2014 Volkswagen Beetle, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Cross-Section of a Radial Tire
- Tread Block
- Tread Groove
- Tread
- Nylon Ply
- Belt Layers
- Consists mostly of steel.
- Bead Bundle
- Consists of steel wires vulcanized into rubber.
- Make sure secure seating of the tire on the rim.
- Bead Filler
- Wheel flange protection
- Protects the rim and tire from abrasion due to, for example, contact with the curb.
- Tires with flange protection are designated by the abbreviation MFS.
The nylon ply -4-, belt layers -5-, bead bundle -6- and bead filler -7- form the carcass. The carcass is the "load-bearing structure" of the tire.