The History in Your Tires

Many times when referring to a spare tire, you'll hear it referred to as a donut. This is most likely because spare tires actually look like donuts, plain donuts. They lack defining features and don't have any advanced tread patterns. They're pretty much just a circular piece of vulcanized rubber, designed to get your car where it needs to go -- far less effectively than the modern tires you typically rely on. Ever since pre-history, the wheel has been making a major difference in the way we do things. But the wheel has come a long way since then. So if you're going to refer to your average car tire as a donut today, you better make it a sprinkled and frosted jelly donut or a Boston Cream.
Still, automobiles remain a relatively new invention when you think about it. Because of that, tires are still undergoing a great deal of innovation, even today. In the early days of the automobile, such as when the model T began rolling out of the Ford factory, car tires were little more than glorified bicycle tires that lasted extended use. Compared to today's tires that can withstand high speed, heat, and cold -- the technology used back then had a seriously long way to go. The first big development for modern tires came around 1844, when Charles Goodyear introduced "vulcanized" rubber. Vulcanized rubber is made more durable by a chemical process where the rubber is cured (usually with sulfar) and heated under pressure. This makes the rubber tougher, more stable, and resistant to heat. This radically changed the tire industry, making tires (and automobiles) a viable tool for transportation. Because of vulcanization, the heat and friction generated by a tires constant high speed contact with the road could break an older tire down faster than you can say hevea brasiliensis, the scientific name for a rubber tree -- the natural (and somewhat inferior) source of rubber.
While we will focus primarily on tire design, and not how the tire was attached to the car or how it was filled with air -- the genesis of the metal tire rim in 1890 and the pneumatic tire in 1895 set the stage for tire design to move forward at an even more accelerated pace. However, up until the early 1900's, tires remained slick and ungrooved. There was no such thing as "siping" or water evacuation. However, in 1908, Frank Seiberling invented a tire with actual traction, which caused chain reaction of innovation in tire technology and tire materials (with the advent of the synthetic tire). As tire technology advanced, cars became more practical, and the industry continued to grow. Naturally, this called for more tires and the tire industry continued to keep pace with demand, improving traction, durability, and fuel efficiency.
So next time you take tires for advantage, consider all of the technology, science, and innovation that's gone into what keeps you moving on the road.

Randal Roberts is a writer who frequently researches and explores topics with a focus on answering common questions asked around the world. Recently he has written extensively

4 Tips in Choosing the Right Company for Your Car Wrapping Needs

Vehicle wraps are graphic stickers printed on vinyl material which are designed to cover vehicles such as trains, buses, cars, vans and even helicopters. With creatively designed car wraps, you can transform any vehicle either into something that is worthy of being included in a car magazine or a mobile marketing machine. One of the leading forms of advertising today is mobile advertising. Since vehicles can go anywhere, your car will catch the attention of thousands of potential costumers in different places in an instant.

Before, vehicle graphics are done with paint. This method of vehicle art is a bit pricey and time-consuming. However, with the technological innovations in large format printing, it became possible to easily create a vehicle art without the expensive and exhausting paint jobs. A well designed vehicle wrap can also give the same effect as that of paint and sometimes even better. You just have to make sure that the wrap is properly installed. In order to do this, it is best that you seek the services of a reliable vehicle wrap company. Here are some tips to help you choose the right company for your car wrapping needs.

1. Have a clear vision in your mind. When looking for a car sticker company, you already must have a clear and concise vision of what you want to be done. This will allow you to easily explain your car wrapping requirements and expectations to the company providing the service. Once you have explained what you have in mind, the company should be able to give you a precise quote of the project. If you are not comfortable with the quote that they have given you, do not hesitate to go look for another service provider.

2. Make sure that the car wrapping company uses high-quality but cost-effective materials. You have to watch out for those companies who use discount level materials and still charge premium rates just to earn extra profits. You need to know whether they will laminate the perforated window vinyl or not. In addition, make an inquiry about what kind of lamination materials they use. Do they use liquid laminate or are they using higher quality film based laminate? The more you know about the whole car wrapping process, the easier it will be for you to ensure the quality of the product that you will be getting.

3. Look for authentic certifications and licenses. Since the car modification industry is swamped with aspiring business owners and amateurs, you need to be certain that you are seeking the services of a reputable company. This is why when choosing a service provider, it is necessary to check for certain certifications such as local business license or a professional license. By making sure that the company is a certified provider of customized vinyl car wraps, you can only expect professional and quality services.

4. Ask for work samples. Although, the project will be carried out with your own set of requirements and specifications, checking out previous work samples will give you a clearer understanding of how the company really works. Furthermore, you can also try to visualize your car into one of their previous car sticker designs. If you liked what you saw, then it is more likely that you will be satisfied with their services.

Finally, remember that your money should be worth it. Therefore, make sure that you are completely satisfied in every step of the way. If you have any doubts or problem about their work, you should immediately address them at the beginning of the process than while viewing the end product.

Lubricants: Uses and Importance

Diesel engine oil is a type of lubricant used in many different kinds of internal combustion engines. It is an important element in keeping an engine alive and making it run smoothly.

Read on and learn of the importance and uses of lubricants like diesel engine oil.

• Lubricants are important in motor vehicles like motorcycles, cars, heavier vehicles like commercial vehicles and buses, non-road vehicles like boats, go-karts, and snowmobiles, lawnmowers, heavy construction and agricultural equipment, aircraft, locomotives, and static engines like electric generators. In all engines, there are parts that are moving or rubbing against each other which cause friction. Friction converts energy into heat which is a waste of power. Therefore lubrication helps conserve energy and put it into good use.

• Contact between metal parts that are moving or rotating can cause wear. This would lead to a lower level of efficiency which will eventually lead to degradation or break down. Therefore, lubrication helps prolong the service life of your engine.

• If an engine is not lubricated by diesel engine oil or other types of oils, fuel consumption will significantly increase since the engine is working two times harder. Also, failure to lubricate will greatly decrease power output.

• Motor oil, through the process called convection is able to transfer heat as the lubricant flows through your engine.

• Lubricating oil such as diesel engine oil makes a film that separates the moving parts of an engine. This protects the engine and its parts.

• Motor oil also coats steel parts. Such coating protects them from being exposed to oxygen. If they are not protected, they will inhibit oxidation at high operating temperatures. This will lead to rust or corrosion.

• Lubricants like diesel engine oil helps keep your engine clean and lessen oil sludge buildup. Also, engine oil is capable of trapping soot from combustion. If this is not done, such substance will be left deposited on the inner surfaces of your engine. This is one of the reasons why oil lubricants turn black in color after some running. Lubricants also help in getting rid of foreign substances that might cause further wear to the engine.

• Lubricants like diesel engine oil also act as a cooling agent. This would prevent your engine from undergoing high temperature strain which would eventually prevent overheating.

The Best Solution for Transporting Your Mobility Scooter

Mobility scooters come in a range of sizes and styles, so when it comes to moving them from place to place, an ideal solution is to get a scooter trailer which keeps your scooter secure.

Why Use a Trailer?

The main reason for having a transport solution is to ensure that you have freedom. By having a trailer to take your scooter with you - wherever you go - you can still stay mobile and enjoy the things you love to do.

Holidays and other outings are made easier with a trailer as well, as it can be hooked up to the back of a car or van and transport your mobility vehicle with ease. It is simply a tool to assist you or your family member with living independently.

What to Look For in a Trailer

Easy to Use - Some models come with fitted tow bars to make attaching the trailer to your vehicle much simpler. Not only this, but some even can be folded away - ideal for easy transportation. Most also come with a ramp for easy access that the scooter can roll onto.

Good Quality - The material which the trailer is made from often determines the quality. Trailers made of mesh, steel joints or aluminium (a very lightweight metal) are popular choices and ensure that the item stays stronger for longer.

Fair Price - Many people will shop for the cheapest scooter to save money. However, quality should be prioritised over price, and prices can range from $300 to over $1000.

Reliability - Trailers which come with a warranty can offer a little extra protection if it were to break within the first 6 months to 1 year. Before making a purchase, you should ask friends to recommend models to ensure that you are making a reliable purchase.

Additional Features - Trailers which are lightweight and flexible to suit all scooter types are likely to be great quality. However, bespoke models might suit you better, especially if you want a secure fit for a scooter which is larger or smaller than the 'average' style. Loading ramps, safety locks and hand rails etc are all features to look out for which can benefit the user.

Overall, a trailer for your mobility scooter is the best solution for improving your independence whether this is a trip aboard or simply a quick shopping trip - it is ideal for easy movement when away from home.

Winter Tyres Can Improve Your Winter Driving

In winter, the condition and performance of your tyres is extremely important. Winter tyres have a specially designed tread and composition in order to provide the most effective grip, handling and safety for drivers. It's an excellent idea, therefore, to change to specialist tyres to improve your winter driving, increase your fuel efficiency and ensure the safety of you and your passengers during the winter months.

Winter tyres are made from special compounds that work best at temperatures of 7 degrees or less. Most of the UK experiences temperatures below this between December and February, and we can usually expect frost on almost half the days of winter. With this type of tyre, your stopping distance can be shortened by up to 11 metres on icy roads, and your vehicle's handling will be greatly improved, reducing the risk of skidding, sliding or aquaplaning.

Safe driving is really important during winter, and in addition to fitting winter tyres to your car, there are other ways to improve your driving during the colder months:

Clear any snow and ice from your windows and mirrors, and fully demist your windscreen and windows before setting off.

Check the weather and traffic reports for your route before you leave to check for severe weather warnings or problems on the road.

Reduce your speed when driving on icy or snowy roads, using as high a gear as possible.

Keep well back from other vehicles to accommodate for increased stopping distances, and take care when overtaking.

Avoid sudden actions, accelerating, braking and taking corners slowly.

You can check how well your tyres are gripping an icy road by braking gently on a safe straight section. If your steering feels unresponsive, your grip may be reduced.

Tyres make almost no noise when travelling over ice.

Keep an emergency bag in the boot of your car that includes a torch, ice scraper, de-icer, warm clothes, jump leads, first aid kit and a snow shovel in case of breakdowns in bad weather.

When changing to winter tyres, it's advised that you change all four tyres at once, ensuring that each has the same speed rating and load index. Winter tyres may seem like an unnecessary expense to some, but when you consider that a decent set of winter tyres can last you through two or three winters, they are really quite cost-effective. Additionally, because you are swapping them for your summer tyres for at least a quarter of the year, you are also saving wear on your other set, prolonging their life too. The best place to buy cheap winter tyres is online, from a mobile tyre fitting company.

Keep yourself safe during winter, and maximise the efficiency of your car by fitting winter tyres.

Buy cheap car tyres online from the UK's friendliest tyre company!

At Grippy, we believe that saving money on tyres shouldn't mean sacrificing on quality. We believe in good old-fashioned tyre service, which means a fast, efficient response, high-quality tyres and an easy-to-use booking system. Rely on Grippy to provide the best prices for UK tyres online and keep you on the road.