Expert Tips #7 – Why use Section Airbags?

When curing a repair you need to fill the inside void of the tyre to exert inward pressure on the repair area. We always recommend using Cylinder Airbags.

In the early days of tyre repair, forcing a tyre into a vulcanising mechanism or section mould was the norm. Solid mandrels were used at first, followed by styrofoam and other materials – metal pipes, sandbags and even wood.

Years’ of experience shows us that the repair is better looking and better performing when Cylinder Airbags are used.

Here’s why Section Airbags (Cylinder of Flat Round Airbags) are the best choice:

1. Cylinder Airbags are quicker. Loading and unloading alternative materials is labour intensive and therefore less efficient.
2. They create the optimum conditions for a perfect repair. The use of Cylinder Airbags will ensure that pressure and heat are applied consistently to the repair area. This can be seen in the distortion free, feather edged appearance of Monaflex repairs.
3. Monaflex repairs are more stable. The uneven surface of alternative fillers causes irregular pressure across the repair which can lead to weak, unstable and and even dangerous repairs.
4. Sandbags and pipes can shift in the cavity as the flat airbag inflates. This shifting causes repair quality issues due to an inconsistent application of pressure.
5. Component lifespan. Sharp ends and irregular loading of airbag substitutes can cause the premature failure of other components.
6. Plastic pipes were not designed for this. They’re not designed to withstand the necessary heat and pressure so, during use, can weaken, melt and fracture unpredictably causing damage to the tyre and bystanders.

So for the safest, strongest and most efficient repairs, we recommend using Cylinder or Flat Round Airbags to fill the section void every time.

Get in touch to find out more about Monaflex components.