How to Calculate the Maximum Load Capacity of Tires?

There is an increasing demand for performance truck tires. Wear resistance and low fuel consumption can be introduced to drivers through the material and tread pattern of the tires, but many new tire workers are at a loss when drivers ask if the tires can carry goods and how much. With the sharp decline in freight income, the carrying capacity of tires has often become the driver's primary concern. So how do we calculate this carrying capacity? Is there a standard?

How to Evaluate the Carrying Capacity of Heavy-duty Tyres

Look at the tire sidewall. The load index and maximum load capacity of each of new truck tires are engraved on the sidewall. The load index of passenger car tires is usually engraved with the cross-sectional width and aspect ratio, while commercial vehicle tires are usually engraved separately, and the markings are also slightly different.

For example, taking commercial vehicle tires as an example, let's find the tire specifications, such as 12R22.5 152/149L, in which 152/149 is the load index we are looking for - the maximum load capacity that the tire can carry when inflated to the specified pressure. Unlike passenger car tires, which are only marked with a load index in the specifications, heavy truck tires usually have two numbers indicating the load capacity under single and dual tire conditions. Generally, the load index for single tires is higher than that for dual tires. The reason for the difference is that when dual tires are installed, the uneven distribution of pressure and some slight asynchrony need to be considered. Therefore, tire manufacturers will suggest reducing the load for dual tire installation.

For example, the load index for a single tire is 152/tire, and the load index for a double tire is converted to 149/tire. The total load capacity is 149*2=298. However, this number is not the weight itself, but an index. 152 means the maximum load capacity of each of new truck tires is 3550 kg, and 149 means the maximum load capacity of each tire is 3250 kg. The maximum carrying capacity of the entire vehicle is the sum of the load capacity of all tires. For example, for a heavy truck with 14 tires, its total load capacity is 45500 kg.

Heavy-duty Tyres Load Capacity is Not Fixed

However, it should be noted that exceeding the maximum load capacity does not immediately damage the tire, but it is not allowed to run for a long time. At the same time, this load index is not fixed and will gradually decrease with increasing vehicle speed. If heavy-duty tires are damaged, used for a long time, or corroded and aged, it will also cause a decrease in the load index of the tire.

Finally, let us remind you to request that drivers carry goods according to the requirements of the vehicle manufacturer and not to overload - overloaded tires will accumulate too much heat and lead to tire structure damage, causing tire burst!

AULICE TYRE is a renowned Chinese tire company providing a wide range of reliable tires to customers worldwide. We specialize in producing superior quality tires for passenger cars, light trucks, SUVs, and commercial vehicles. All of our tires are made with advanced production technology, high-grade materials and strict quality control. Our products are designed to provide customers with reliable performance, superior comfort, and excellent safety. We are committed to delivering the highest quality tires at competitive prices to ensure the best customer experience. Please feel free to contact us for more information.