WHAT IS A ZIPPER RUPTURE

Photo #1

A zipper rupture is a circumferential rupture in the mid sidewall of a steel cord radial tire that occurs when the cords have been damaged to the extent that they can no longer contain the pressure in the tire. This blast of air can cause serious injury or death to any one in close proximity to the tire.

WHAT IS A ZIPPER RUPTURE

Photo #2

Xray shows broken steel cords in the sidewall of a steel radial truck tire. This problem is caused by pinch shock or underinflation.

WHAT IS A ZIPPER RUPTURE

Photo #3

Pressurizing this steel radial truck tire and using an indirect light reveals broken cords that would lead to a zipper rupture. (this inspection should be conducted only by a trained tire technician.)

WHAT IS A ZIPPER RUPTURE

Photo #4

These two steel radial truck tires appear to have the same type of failure. The fact is that they failed for completly different reasons.

WHAT IS A ZIPPER RUPTURE

Photo #5

OSHA 1910 177 Regulations require that all truck tires be inflated in a safety cage or restraining device using a clip on chuck.