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Why Tyre Inspection Panels ?

16th February 1951
Page 57
Page 57, 16th February 1951 — Why Tyre Inspection Panels ?
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

k/IEMBERS of the Institute of Road

Lill Transport Engineers yesterday iiscussed the work of the 'lyre lnspeeion Panels of the Tyre Manufacturers' L'onference. A short introductory saper was read by Mr. W. H. Birinc, :hairrnsu of the Service Committee, Mr. Binns said that one invention vhich had had a rnost. profound effect tpon our way of living is the pneumatic yre. What was originally a flimsy conraption of vegetable matter with a trace if mineral had made possible the rapid ransport of goods and passengers which ve know to-day, and had provided deasure for countless thousands.. The xtent of this change could be visualized .nly by contemplating what life would e without it.

Despite its universal use, the pneulatic tyre was imperfectly understood y many, who considered that it should ever fail prematurely under any condion of use and abuse. In their view, it nould not only remain unscathed after upping kerbs, running over broken ottles, nails, etc., but, in addition, mild give service for thousands of tiles without the slightest trouble,

imperfect knowledge meant that. many users did not hesitate to disagree with the expert diagnosis of causes of failure, and attempted. to blame their experience on to faulty manufacture. Even the fundamental requirement of inflation to a predetermined air pressure was 'still not fully appreciated. It was true that some users expected tyres to stand up to any kind of treatment.

Pressure by certain users to .demand allowances from individual makers, regardless of the cause of failure, had created a vicious, coni&titive adjustment problem leading to undesirable trade practices. Selling prices had to be increased proportionately to offset concessions, and the honest user had to pay more for his tyres.

Exploitation Prevented

Thought was given to the introduction of an alternative method of handling complaints, which, whilst giving every consideration to genuine claims. afforded protection from those who sought to make others carry losses consequent upon their own negligence, misfortune or type ofservice. The conditions of tyre use made any guarantee impracticable, also the materials used were largely vegetable in origin and altered their characteristics according to changes in climatic condi tions. Makers had, . however, given sympathetic consideration to reasonable. complaints.

It was decided that tyre examination and adjustment upon claims should he trusted to some impartial body. and the Panels set up consisted of specialists drawn from competing companies. The Panel decisions Were binding and without appeal. • Great Britain and Northern Ireland were divided into four districts, each with an inspection centre, the Manager and personal staff dealing with the receipt, and dispatch of tyres. Panels changed frequently, the longest period of duty not exceeding a week. When a decision was not unanimous, the tyre was submitted to another Panel.

Rapidity of wear and all other factors were taken into consideration. It was known that the driving methods of different people created a vast difference in potential tyre life. Therefore, mileage alone • was not a sound" indication.


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