Tubes & Flaps

Correct Use of Commercial Inner Tubes

Tires in certain agricultural, industrial, semi-truck, and other commercial application segments are designed for use with inner tubes. Correct use of commercial tire tubes can prevent air leakage, sustain long-term use, reduce rolling resistance, support heavy loads, preserve tread life, and offer resistance to age and heat-related failure.

How to Choose Correct Commercial Inner Tubes

Choosing the correct commercial tube will help your tire retain air, remain stable during service, and reduce downtime for your equipment. Here are some things to think about when you are going to buy tire inner tubes online. First, consider whether you need a bias or radial tube. It is very important to remember that while you can use a radial tube in a bias tire, you should never use a bias tube in a radial tire. So, if you have a bias tire you can use any tube in it (assuming you have the correct size), but if you have a radial tire you must use a radial tube.

Next, you want to make sure you have the correct valve for your application and for the wheel you are using. Many tube sizes come with more than one valve available, so you should know which one you need. A good example is a 7.50R-16 tube, which can be purchased with a TR13, TR15, TR150A, or TR75A valve. A TR13 is a straight rubber- covered valve that is 1.38 inches long and fits a .453- inch diameter rim hole. A TR15 is also a straight rubber- covered valve that is 1.38 inches in length, but it fits a .625 inch diameter rim hole. The TR150A is a straight rubber covered valve that fits a .625 inch diameter rim hole, but it is longer at 3.55 inches and is hand bendable. The TR75A is a metal valve, generally bent at 85 degrees, that is 3.0 inches long, fits a .453 inch rim hole and can be used with liquid fill-our different valves for four different applications.

Finally, think about the type of application the tire is being used in and select a type of tube that can handle the job. For many commercial applications, a regular Premium tube made from butyl rubber will be suitable. For some farming applications, especially with radial rear farm tires, a Severe Service tube made thicker with stronger construction is needed. For some heavy duty farming and forestry applications a Natural Rubber tube is required.