The wheel rim on each of the four (or more) axles of a car or vehicle is responsible for fixing the tyre in place and holding its air pressure firmly – making it an integral part of the vehicle’s overall safety. After all, with the tyres the only part of the vehicle that makes constant contact with the road surface, making sure that these tyres are fitted properly and fixed tightly is the first and most important safety measure.
One trend which has made its way onto the market is the split rim wheel – supposedly a more convenient and simplified solution that sees the wheel constructed of a series of a components which are bolted together.
But should something that plays such a vital role in vehicle safety ever be disassembled? In this blog we’re exposing the reality of split rim wheels and why they have such a dangerous reputation.
What is a Split Rim Wheel?
A split rim wheel makes the most sense when you think of a standard rim as being one single structure which holds the tyre firmly in place. It was originally designed to aid commercial and industrial vehicle drivers and mechanics, who found it difficult to mount the larger, heavier and much stiffer tyres onto the one-piece rim.
In contrast, a split rim wheel makes it much easier to mount these heavier and more cumbersome tyres, comprising of two or three parts – including a locking ring - that are held together by the pressure of the tyre. And it comes with a number of benefits!
Not only is a split rim wheel easier to manage in terms of tyre mounting, but the tyre inflation locking the components together means that tyre adjustments are easy to manage out on the road.
So, Why Are Split Rim Wheel Considered Dangerous?
The challenges and hazards come when looking at the structural integrity of the split rim wheel – especially if the pieces come apart during inflation or deflation. The components need to fit together seamlessly to ensure safety, with the locking ring needing to be in excellent condition and seated properly in its position, to ensure it doesn’t become a hazard.
Why? Because if the locking ring suddenly fails during inflation, the components are ejected by the full force of the tyre’s pressure – creating unpredictable weapons that can cause serious damage if they come into contact with people or objects.
What’s more, because the seating and fitment of the locking ring can only be properly tested and assessed once the tyre is inflated, a potential hazard will only show itself when it’s too late to prevent damage.
Are Split Rim Wheels Still Used in the Industry?
The heavy nature and design of commercial tyres is such that these split rim wheels are still used – though mitigations have been put in place to minimise the risk level and hazard potential.
One of the most notable is the addition of a metal safety cage which is designed to contain any component that breaks loose during the inflation and fitting process. The act of the inflation itself is also now managed from a distance using a remote valve, which makes it possible for mechanics to inflate the tyre remotely and without standing in the line of fire of potential damage.
Finally, components – and especially the locking ring – are regularly inspected to ensure they remain safe and in a stable, usable condition before fitment.
Have you got any experience with split rim wheels from time spent in the commercial or HGV industry? What are your thoughts on their safety?
