Menu

Knowledge Hub

Expert guides on tire selection, maintenance, and best practices for OTR, TBR, and PCR tires.

📏 Tire Size Guide

Understanding tire sizes is critical for selecting the right tire. Here's how to read tire size markings:

OTR Tire Size Format: 23.5R25

  • 23.5 = Tire section width in inches
  • R = Radial construction (B = Bias, D = Diagonal)
  • 25 = Rim diameter in inches

PCR/TBR Tire Size Format: 205/55R16

  • 205 = Section width in millimeters
  • 55 = Aspect ratio (sidewall height is 55% of width)
  • R = Radial construction
  • 16 = Rim diameter in inches

Common OTR Sizes

SizeApplicationTypical Use
12.00R20Loader/GraderLight construction
17.5R25LoaderMedium duty
20.5R25Loader/Dump TruckHeavy construction
23.5R25Wheel LoaderMost common size
26.5R25Large LoaderMining/quarry
29.5R25Heavy LoaderMining
18.00R33Mining TruckLarge mining
35/65R33Mining TruckUltra-class

Common TBR Sizes

SizePositionApplication
12R22.5All-positionTruck/Bus
295/80R22.5Drive/SteerLong-haul truck
315/80R22.5DriveHeavy transport
11R24.5All-positionBus/Truck
Tip: Always match the exact tire size recommended by the equipment manufacturer. Using incorrect sizes can void warranties and cause safety issues.

🚜 OTR Tire Guide

Off-The-Road (OTR) tires are designed for heavy equipment used in mining, construction, quarrying, and industrial applications.

OTR Tire Categories

  • Loader Tires: For wheel loaders, backhoes, and compact equipment
  • Dozer Tires: For bulldozers and track-type equipment
  • Dump Truck Tires: For rigid and articulated haul trucks
  • Grader Tires: For motor graders
  • Crane Tires: For mobile cranes and heavy lift equipment

OTR Tire Construction Types

  • Radial (R): Better heat dissipation, longer tread life, better fuel efficiency. Preferred for most applications.
  • Bias (B): Stronger sidewall, better for cut-prone environments. Lower speed capability.
  • Solid: For extreme conditions where punctures are common. Zero flat risk.

Key Selection Factors

  • Equipment type and weight
  • Ground conditions (rock, dirt, sand, mud)
  • Average speed and cycle times
  • Ambient temperature
  • Load per tire (tonnage)
  • Distance per hour (km/h)
Tip: For mining applications, always check the TKPH (Tonne Kilometer Per Hour) rating to ensure the tire can handle your specific load and speed combination.

🚛 TBR Tire Guide

Truck and Bus Radial (TBR) tires are designed for commercial vehicles including long-haul trucks, city buses, and delivery vehicles.

TBR Tire Positions

  • Steer/All-Position: Designed for front axle. Features ribbed tread for steering precision and water evacuation.
  • Drive: For rear axle. Deeper tread with aggressive patterns for traction under power.
  • Trailer: For trailer axles. Ribbed design for rolling resistance reduction and even wear.
  • All-Position: Can be used on any axle. Versatile and cost-effective for mixed fleets.

Key TBR Specifications

SpecWhat It Means
Load IndexMaximum weight per tire (e.g., 152/148 = dual/single)
Speed RatingMaximum speed (L=120km/h, M=130km/h, K=110km/h)
Ply RatingLoad capacity indicator (14PR, 16PR, 18PR)
Rolling CircumferenceMust match across axles to prevent drivetrain damage

Fleet Selection Tips

  • Long-haul: Choose low rolling resistance for fuel savings
  • Regional: Balance between traction and mileage
  • Urban/Bus: Focus on durability and curb resistance
  • Mixed service: All-position tires for flexibility

🚗 PCR Tire Guide

Passenger Car Radial (PCR) tires cover sedans, SUVs, crossovers, pickups, and performance vehicles.

PCR Tire Types

  • Touring/All-Season: Balanced performance, long tread life, comfortable ride. Most popular category.
  • Highway/Terrain (HT): For SUVs and pickups. On-road comfort with light off-road capability.
  • All-Terrain (AT): 50/50 on-road and off-road. Aggressive tread pattern.
  • Mud-Terrain (MT): Extreme off-road. Loud on highway, maximum mud/snow traction.
  • Performance/UHP: High-speed rated. Superior handling and braking. Shorter tread life.
  • Winter/Snow: Soft compound for cold temperatures. 3PMSF certified.

Understanding PCR Markings

  • P225/65R17: P-Metric, 225mm width, 65% aspect ratio, radial, 17" rim
  • LT265/70R17: Light Truck metric, for heavier vehicles
  • 245/45ZR18: Z-speed rated (300km/h+), ultra-high performance
Tip: When replacing PCR tires, always replace in pairs (same axle) or all four. Mismatched tires cause handling issues.

🔲 Tire Pattern Guide

OTR tire tread patterns are classified by type and application. The right pattern maximizes tire life and productivity.

OTR Tread Pattern Types

PatternTypeBest ForTread Depth
L-3TractionGeneral purpose loading, good road travelStandard
L-4TractionRocky conditions, extra cut resistance150% of L-3
L-5TractionSevere conditions, deep tread for maximum life200% of L-3
E-3TractionEarthmoving, haul trucks, normal conditionsStandard
E-4TractionEarthmoving, rocky conditions150% of E-3
G-3RibGraders, smooth surfacesStandard

How to Choose

  • Soft ground, long distance: L-3 or E-3 (standard depth, better heat dissipation)
  • Rocky, abrasive: L-4 or E-4 (deeper tread, more rubber to wear)
  • Extreme wear, short cycles: L-5 (maximum tread depth)
  • Underground mining: Special compounds with fire-resistant properties
Tip: Deeper tread (L-5) generates more heat. In high-speed or long-distance applications, a shallower pattern (L-3) may actually last longer due to heat management.

⚖️ Tire Load Ratings

Understanding load ratings ensures you select tires that safely carry your equipment's weight.

Load Index (LI)

A numerical code indicating the maximum load a tire can carry at its rated speed.

Load IndexMax Load (kg)Common Application
1483,150 kgLight truck
1523,550 kgMedium truck
1543,750 kgHeavy truck
1604,500 kgBus/Heavy truck

Speed Symbols

SymbolMax SpeedTypical Use
A840 km/hOTR/Construction
B50 km/hOTR/Site use
G90 km/hOTR/Road travel
J100 km/hOTR/Highway
K110 km/hTBR
L120 km/hTBR Long-haul
M130 km/hTBR/PCR
H210 km/hPCR
V240 km/hPCR Performance

TKPH Rating (OTR)

Tonne-Kilometer Per Hour measures an OTR tire's ability to carry load over distance. Formula: TKPH = Average tire load (tonnes) x Average speed (km/h)

If your calculated TKPH exceeds the tire's rating, the tire will overheat and fail prematurely.

⛏️ Mining Tire Guide

Mining is the most demanding application for tires. Proper selection directly impacts cost per ton and productivity.

Mining Tire Selection Factors

  • Haul road conditions: Rock size, sharpness, grade, rolling resistance
  • Cycle time: Short cycles = higher impact; long cycles = heat buildup
  • Gross Machine Weight (GMW): Loaded weight distributed across tires
  • Climate: Ambient temperature affects tire pressure and heat
  • Spot maintenance: Road quality directly affects tire life

Common Mining Tire Sizes

SizeEquipmentMine Type
23.5R255-7 ton loadersQuarry/Small mining
26.5R258-12 ton loadersMedium mining
29.5R2512+ ton loadersLarge mining
18.00R3360-100 ton trucksLarge surface mining
24.00R35100-200 ton trucksMega mining
33.00R51200+ ton trucksUltra-class
59/80R63400 ton trucksLargest mining trucks
Tip: Track TKPH utilization daily. Even a 10% overload can reduce tire life by 30-50%.

📦 Container Loading Guide

Proper container loading maximizes shipment efficiency and prevents tire damage during transit.

Standard Container Sizes

ContainerInternal LengthMax Payload
20ft Standard5.9m28 tons
40ft Standard12.0m26 tons
40ft High Cube12.0m26 tons (taller)

Tire Loading Patterns

  • OTR tires (large): Usually loaded vertically, nested. 23.5R25 typically 4-6 per 20ft container.
  • TBR tires: Tightly packed in rows. 12R22.5 typically 50-60 per 40ft container.
  • PCR tires: Can be interleaved. 205/55R16 typically 200-300 per 40ft container.

Loading Tips

  • Never exceed container max payload
  • Use proper dunnage and strapping to prevent movement
  • Keep tires away from sharp edges
  • Do not stack more than recommended height
  • Photograph loading for insurance documentation

🚢 Export & Shipping Guide

Understanding the export process helps you plan orders and manage expectations.

Export Process Steps

  1. Inquiry & Quotation: Send specifications, receive pricing within 24-48 hours
  2. Order Confirmation: Proforma invoice, payment terms agreed
  3. Production/Procurement: 7-30 days depending on stock and quantity
  4. Quality Inspection: Pre-shipment inspection with photos/report
  5. Container Loading: Supervised loading with documentation
  6. Shipping: Sea freight 7-45 days depending on destination
  7. Customs Clearance: Buyer handles import clearance at destination
  8. Delivery: Port to warehouse or door delivery

Common Shipping Terms (Incoterms)

TermMeaningSeller Responsibility
FOBFree On BoardTo port of loading
CIFCost, Insurance, FreightTo destination port + insurance
CFRCost & FreightTo destination port (no insurance)
DDPDelivered Duty PaidTo buyer's door, all costs

Major Shipping Routes from Thailand

  • To Southeast Asia: 5-10 days
  • To China/Japan/Korea: 7-14 days
  • To Middle East: 14-21 days
  • To East Africa: 21-30 days
  • To Europe: 25-35 days
  • To Americas: 30-45 days

🔧 Tire Maintenance Guide

Proper maintenance extends tire life by 30-50% and prevents catastrophic failures.

Daily Checks

  • Tire Pressure: Check cold (before operation). Incorrect pressure is the #1 cause of premature wear.
  • Visual Inspection: Look for cuts, bulges, embedded objects, irregular wear
  • Valve Stems: Check for damage and leaks
  • Wheel Nuts: Verify proper torque

Pressure Guidelines

ConditionEffect
Under-inflatedExcessive flexing, heat buildup, sidewall damage, irregular wear
Over-inflatedReduced contact patch, center wear, cut/impact damage
Correct pressureOptimal footprint, even wear, maximum life

Common Wear Patterns & Causes

  • Shoulder wear (both sides): Under-inflation
  • Center wear: Over-inflation
  • One-side wear: Misalignment
  • Cupping/scalloping: Suspension issues or imbalance
  • Feathering: Toe-in/toe-out misalignment
Tip: Rotate tires every 5,000-10,000 km (TBR/PCR) to ensure even wear. OTR tires should be rotated based on hours of service.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is your minimum order quantity?

For bulk orders, we typically require one container (20ft or 40ft). However, we can accommodate smaller orders for premium customers or specific tire sizes.

What payment terms do you accept?

We accept T/T (bank transfer), L/C (letter of credit), and Western Union. Standard terms: 30% deposit, 70% before shipment or against BL copy.

How long does delivery take?

Production: 7-30 days. Shipping: 7-45 days depending on destination. Total lead time: 15-60 days from order confirmation.

Do you provide certificates for import?

Yes. We provide Certificate of Origin, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, and any required inspection certificates (SGS, BV, etc.).

What warranty do you offer?

Warranty varies by tire type. Generally: OTR tires carry a warranty against manufacturing defects. TBR tires include mileage warranties. PCR tires follow standard manufacturer warranty terms.

Can you source specific brands?

Yes. We source from multiple Thai and international factories. If you need a specific brand, size, or pattern, contact us and we'll check availability.

Do you handle customs clearance?

Under FOB and CIF terms, the buyer handles import clearance. Under DDP terms, we handle everything to your door. Contact us to discuss your preferred arrangement.

How do I claim warranty?

Submit photos of the tire showing the defect, size markings, and date code. Our technical team will assess and respond within 48 hours.

Need Personalized Advice? Contact our tire experts for a free consultation and quote. We respond within 4 hours. Get Expert Help