Bridgestone has developed
a revolutionary new printing method for
tires that is different from any
existing tire printing or coloring
process, according to company
executives, who say that they intend to
bring the technology to market as soon
as possible.
Until now, white rubber has been used
on the sidewalls of tires to
manufacture white ribbon and white
letter tires. This process requires the
use of large amounts of white rubber to
prevent discoloration and to also
maintain durability. This conventional
manufacturing process can also add
additional weight to the tire.
The advanced tire printing technology
consists of a layer to protect from
discoloration at the base, newly
developed inks and a layer to protect
from external damages on the
surface.
Bridgestone says the company can obtain
a “more creative showcase of tires
while also considering environmental
concerns such as fuel efficiency
without (adding) any additional weight
to the tire.”
As an example of its potential
applications, “original customer
designs or photographs could be printed
on tire sidewalls and later removed or
changed if a customer chooses.”
For more information, visit www.bridgestone-
firestone.com.
