Tire Bead Pressure Measurement

Measure the bead seat /seal pressure profile of virtually any tire to wheel interface

Tire Bead Pressure Measurement with Tactile Pressure Sensors

The I-Scan^® force and pressure measurement system enables quick and accurate measurements of the bead seat/seal pressure profile of virtually any tire to wheel interface. Until the introduction of this system, the only way to measure the tire bead profile was with expensive rim machines or by having specially instrumented wheels manufactured. The I-Scan system and tire bead sensors easily instrument any tire and wheel interface, and accurately measure the bead pressure profile. Knowing this pressure profile and how it changes under various conditions can assist in optimizing both tire and wheel designs. It also provides important test data needed for tire and wheel FEA model validation. Finally, a company can save time and money by reducing the need for expensive test equipment.

Tekscan’s patented, thin-film sensors are available in different shapes and pressure ranges, are reusable, and provide accurate pressure data. With the help of our highly qualified sales and engineering support team, each system can be configured to meet your specific needs.

tire bead pressure profile

2-D output and pressure versus distance plot of the tire bead contact pressure. The pressure profile is plotted from outside the tire, past the flange and bead to inside the tire.

Tire Bead Pressure Measurement Applications

Inboard and outboard beads
Camber, slip, braking, and turning situations
Vehicle overload conditions
Tire over and under-inflation conditions
Pressures during inflation, seating and tire rotation

Benefits of Using I-Scan for Tire Bead Pressure Measurement

Tire and wheel FEA model validation
Replaces the need for rim machines, specially instrumented wheels, and customized parts to test new designs
Provides pressure information under various testing conditions quickly and easily

Typical Pressure Sensor Models used for Tire Bead Pressure Measurement

Sensor Model 8100

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

0.60 in. 3.12 in. 624 333.3 in.²

15.2 mm 79.2 mm 624 51.7 cm²
Sensor Model 8110

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

0.60 in. 7.80 in. 624 133.3 in.²

15.2 mm 198.1 mm 624 20.7 cm²
Sensor Model 8150

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

0.73 in. 16.00 in. 128 8.0 in.²

18.5 mm 406.4 mm 128 1.2 cm²
Sensor Model 8155

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

0.73 in. 26.00 in. 208 8.0 in.²

18.5 mm 660.4 mm 208 1.2 cm²