ASTM F1112-06A(2018)e1

Standard Test Method for Static Testing of Tubeless Pneumatic Tires for Rate of Loss of Inflation Pressure

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Inflation pressure retention is an important property of tire performance because underinflation can adversely affect tire rolling resistance, handling, structural integrity, and tread life.  
5.2 This test method is useful for research and development evaluation of the effects of tire component formulations and geometry on inflation pressure retention. Testing for rate of pressure loss under static conditions is practical because of the following:  
5.2.1 Tires in normal use are predominantly at rest, and  
5.2.2 Relative air diffusion rates of various tires in normal intermittent road service will correlate with static relative rates, to a first approximation. The relative air diffusion rates of different tires may not be quite the same under dynamic flexing as when tested statically, but the difference is believed to be small.  
5.3 The results from this test method are not suitable for inferring tire inflation retention under severe service conditions, such as heavy cornering or impacts, that might cause significant air loss at the tire-rim seal.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the rate of inflation pressure loss resulting from air diffusion through the structures of tubeless tires under constant temperature conditions. The testing is done under static conditions, that is, nonrotating, nonloaded tires.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Nov-2018
• ICS: 83.160.01 - Tyres in general
• Technical Committee: F09 - Tires
• Drafting Committee: F09.30 - Laboratory (Non-Vehicular) Testing

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM F1112-06a(2010) - Standard Test Method for Static Testing of Tubeless Pneumatic Tires for Rate of Loss of Inflation Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2018
• Refers: ASTM F538-09 - Standard Terminology Relating to the Characteristics and Performance of Tires
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2009
• Refers: ASTM F538-03 - Standard Terminology Relating to the Characteristics and Performance of Tires
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2003
• Refers: ASTM F538-99 - Standard Terminology Relating to the Characteristics and Performance of Tires
• Effective Date: 10-Apr-1999

Overview

ASTM F1112-06A(2018)e1, titled Standard Test Method for Static Testing of Tubeless Pneumatic Tires for Rate of Loss of Inflation Pressure, establishes a procedure for assessing how quickly air permeates through tubeless tire structures under constant temperature conditions. Developed by ASTM International, this standard is widely referenced in the tire manufacturing and testing sectors to evaluate inflation pressure retention, which is critical for safe and efficient tire performance. Using nonrotating, nonloaded tires, the method normalizes inflation pressure measurements to account for temperature and barometric pressure, ensuring reliable and repeatable results under controlled laboratory settings.

Key Topics

• Inflation Pressure Retention: Maintaining proper inflation is essential for tire performance, impacting rolling resistance, handling, structural integrity, and tread wear.
• Static Testing Conditions: The test simulates real-world conditions where tires are predominantly at rest, providing meaningful data on air diffusion rates through different tire constructions.
• Normalized Pressure Calculations: Results are adjusted for temperature and atmospheric variations, improving comparability and accuracy.
• Precision and Reproducibility: The method includes strict requirements for equipment calibration, sample preparation, and environmental controls, yielding consistent data across different laboratories.
• Scope Limitations: While comprehensive for static conditions, this method does not address air loss events during severe dynamic service, such as heavy cornering or impact, which can cause leakage at the tire-rim interface.

Applications

The ASTM F1112 standard provides practical value across a range of applications in tire design, quality control, and research:

• Tire Development: Engineers use this method to assess how variations in tire materials, innerliners, and construction techniques affect air retention. This supports the development of longer-lasting, safer, and more efficient tires.
• Quality Assurance: Manufacturers can evaluate batch consistency, ensuring tires leaving the factory meet strict pressure retention specifications.
• Comparative Studies: The standard enables comparative analysis across different tire models or manufacturers by providing a uniform testing baseline.
• Regulatory Compliance: Results from ASTM F1112 testing support conformity with international and industry-specific regulations regarding tire performance and safety.
• Performance Research: Researchers apply this method to analyze trends in inflation loss rates stemming from new materials, sustainability initiatives, or evolving consumer requirements.

Related Standards

• ASTM F538: Terminology Relating to the Characteristics and Performance of Tires. Useful for understanding key terms and definitions associated with tire testing.
• ASTM D4483: Practice for Evaluating Precision for Test Method Standards in the Rubber and Carbon Black Manufacturing Industries. Provides guidance on statistical analysis, repeatability, and reproducibility.
• USTMA Practices: The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) recommendations for mounting and bead lubrication are referenced to ensure best practices during tire preparation.

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By following ASTM F1112-06A(2018)e1, tire manufacturers, researchers, and quality labs can accurately evaluate the static rate of inflation pressure loss in tubeless pneumatic tires. This enhances confidence in tire safety, supports innovation, and facilitates harmonization with global tire performance standards. For organizations seeking reliable inflation pressure testing, adherence to ASTM F1112 is essential for ensuring product reliability and consistent performance in the marketplace.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
´1
Designation:F1112 −06a (Reapproved 2018)
Standard Test Method for
Static Testing of Tubeless Pneumatic Tires for Rate of Loss
of Inflation Pressure
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1112; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
ε NOTE—Editorially corrected 7.7 in December 2018.
1. Scope 3.1.1 inflation pressure loss rate, n—rate of change of
normalizedinflationpressure,determinedfromtheslopeofthe
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the rate of
linear portion of the log pressure versus time curve. F538
inflation pressure loss resulting from air diffusion through the
3.1.2 measured inflation pressure, n—gauge pressure of a
structures of tubeless tires under constant temperature condi-
tire measured at a given time under ambient temperature and
tions. The testing is done under static conditions, that is,
barometric pressure. F538
nonrotating, nonloaded tires.
3.1.3 normalized inflation pressure, n— measured pressure
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
ofatireadjusted,accordingtotheidealgaslaw,tothenominal
standard. The values given in parentheses are for information
test temperature and one atmosphere external barometric
only.
pressure. F538
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
4. Summary of Test Method
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
4.1 Test tires are mounted on rims, fitted with calibrated
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
precision pressure measuring devices, inflated to the desired
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
pressure, and, after a period of stabilization, are monitored for
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
inflation pressure as a function of time under static, constant
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
temperature conditions.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
4.2 Measured inflation pressures are normalized to the
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
nominal test temperature and one atmosphere barometric
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
pressure for calculation of pressure loss rates.
4.3 Two or more tires per tire specification are tested for
2. Referenced Documents
pressure loss rate over a period of two to six months. High
2.1 ASTM Standards:
precision in the equipment and data may allow shortening the
D4483Practice for Evaluating Precision for Test Method
test. See 9.6, 10.5, and Section 12.
StandardsintheRubberandCarbonBlackManufacturing
4.4 The pressure loss rate is calculated as percent loss per
Industries
month at the nominal test temperature and one atmosphere
F538Terminology Relating to the Characteristics and Per-
barometric pressure (101.3 kPa).
formance of Tires
5. Significance and Use
3. Terminology
5.1 Inflation pressure retention is an important property of
3.1 Definitions:
tire performance because underinflation can adversely affect
tire rolling resistance, handling, structural integrity, and tread
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F09 on Tires
life.
and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F09.30 on Laboratory (Non-
Vehicular) Testing.
5.2 Thistestmethodisusefulforresearchanddevelopment
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2018. Published December 2018. Originally
evaluation of the effects of tire component formulations and
approved in 1987. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as F1112–06a (2010).
DOI: 10.1520/F1112-06AR18E01.
geometry on inflation pressure retention. Testing for rate of
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
pressure loss under static conditions is practical because of the
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
following:
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. 5.2.1 Tires in normal use are predominantly at rest, and
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
´1
F1112−06a (2018)
5.2.2 Relative air diffusion rates of various tires in normal for seating beads. Use of sealants in the bead-flange area
intermittentroadservicewillcorrelatewithstaticrelativerates, should be avoided since it can prevent proper seating.
to a first approximation. The relative air diffusion rates of
7.8 The rim shall be outfitted with either two serviceable
differenttiresmaynotbequitethesameunderdynamicflexing
valves or a single valve to which is then attached a metal “T”
as when tested statically, but the difference is believed to be
adapter that permits permanent attachment of a pressure-
small.
measuring device (gauge/transducer) to one opening and infla-
5.3 The results from this test method are not suitable for tion through the other.
inferring tire inflation retention under severe service
7.9 A sealing tape such as TFE-fluorocarbon or a room-
conditions, such as heavy cornering or impacts, that might
temperature curable sealant shall be used on all threaded
cause significant air loss at the tire-rim seal.
connections in the valve-adapter-gauge/transducer assembly.
7.10 Apressure-measuring device shall be connected to the
6. Interferences
adapter (or valve) to continuously measure inflation pressure.
6.1 Ambient temperature excursions greater than 63°C
The device shall have a resolution of at least 2 kPa (0.25 psi)
(65°F) for several hours may significantly alter both the air
and an accuracy of 61% of the measured pressure. Devices
diffusion rate through the tire and the driving force inflation
shall be calibrated before and after each use with a reference
pressure, thereby causing variability in the rate of tire pressure
device whose calibration is traceable to the National Institute
loss. Some temperature variations can result from inconsistent
of Standards and Technology (NIST). The pressure-measuring
air currents around the test tires, or from spatial temperature
device must maintain this accuracy over the duration of the
gradients in static air spaces. The effects can be significant
test. Quality Bourdon tube gauges have been satisfactory for
where heat-generating tests such as laboratory road wheels are
180-day duration tests. Electronic pressure transducers and
operating intermittently in the same room.
data acquisition systems are advantageous due to their
6.2 Other causes for inconsistent results are minute leaks in
accuracy, repeatability, and continuous remote monitoring
the tire, rim, valve, or pressure measuring device assembly; as
capability. To ensure their accuracy, these systems must be
well as varied service or other heat history of the test tires.
calibrated as a single, functional unit; transducer, cabling,
signal conditioner, and data acquisition device.These systems,
7. Sampling and Preparation of Test Tires
along with stable environmental conditions, can enable shorter
7.1 All of the tires in a sample should have the desired duration tests producing results comparable to 180-day test
results.
producingplantanddatecodesandsimilarstorageandservice
temperature history.
7.11 Inflatethetire-rimassemblyoutfittedwiththepressure
gauge or transducer to the desired starting pressure. Test for
7.2 Tires must be free of molding or other defects, particu-
larly on the bead area and innerliner surfaces. leaksbysubmersioninawatertank,uptothebaseofthegauge
or transducer, for at least 30 min or carefully check both beads
7.3 New tires should be used for evaluation of construction
and fittings for leaks with leak detection fluid. If other than a
or compound variations.
painted steel rim is used, the entire rim must be checked for
7.4 Minimum recommended sample size is two tires for
leaks.
each type of tire or treatment being tested.
7.12 Afterconfirmingthatthetire-rimassemblyisfreefrom
7.5 Test tires are to be mounted on rims of the proper bead
leaks, fit the valve or adapter opening with a sealing cap, and
seat diameter with clean, smooth surfaces in the bead seat
keep the tire in the same orientation to avoid causing new
areas,particularlyinthevicinityoftheweld.Rimflangesmust
leaks.
be free of sharp edges or scuffs that could damage the tire
7.13 After the leakage check, condition the tires at the test
during mounting. Bead seat diameters must be verified using a
room temperature for 48 h; then adjust to the starting test
certifieddisctape(a.k.a.balltape)andbeacceptableaccording
pressure. Replace the sealing cap on the valve or adapter. If a
to an applicable standard such as the Tire & RimAssociation,
pressure drop of more than 3 kPa (0.5 psi) occurs over the
Inc.(T&RA).Paintedsteelisthematerialofchoiceforthetest
conditioning period, recheck the assembly for leakage accord-
rims due to the low permeation rates. If another rim material
ing to 7.11 and, if necessary, dismount and remount the tire.
mustbeused,thenprecautionsaretobetakentoinsureagainst
Greaterthan48hconditioningmaybenecessaryforsometires
air permeation through the rim material.
suchashigh-pressurecompactspares,whosegrowthcanaffect
7.6 Acommercial bead-rim lubricant shall be applied to the
early inflation loss results.
tire bead areas and rim before mounting. Vegetable oil or
soap-based lubricants are recommended.
8. Test Chamber
7.7 Mount the tire on the rim according to the practice
8.1 The test chamber shall be controlled to provide a mean
recommended by U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association
ambient temperature that is within 60.6°C (61°F) of the
(USTMA). Do not exceed 275 kPa (40 psi) inflation pressure
nominal test temperature and with overall variation within
63°C (65°F) over the course of the test.
8.2 Nominal test temperatures currently in use are: 21, 24,
Available from U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association, 1400 K. St. N.W.,
Washington, DC20005. 30, and 38°C (70, 75, 86, and 100°F).
´1
F1112−06a (2018)
8.3 Air in the test chamber should be forcibly circulated to lnP 5 α1βt (3)
minimize spatial temperature gradients.
where:
9. Procedure α =ln P
o
The model is derived from a relationship that expresses
9.1 Placethetesttiresinthetestchambersoastoallowfree
pressure loss as a function of pressure only:
air circulation around them and easy visual access to the
pressure gauges. The tires shall not be moved during the test.
dP/dt 5 βP (4)
9.2 Record inflation pressures, concurrent ambient
Thus, pressure loss in absolute units will vary as the actual
temperatures, and barometric pressures frequently (daily read-
nominal pressure changes, but a loss rate can be expressed by
ings are recommended) for two weeks. If using a pressure
the constant, β.
gauge,tapthegaugelightlypriortoeachreading.Tiresshallbe
10.4 The calculated loss rate constant, β, will be in units of
considered to be satisfactorily conditioned when the slope of
1/day.This number will typically be a very small decimal; it is
the logarithm of the normalized inflation pressure versus time
convenient, and perhaps more intuitively meaningful, to ex-
relationship becomes constant.
press loss rate as a percent per month. This is done by
9.3 The test shall be continued if replicate tires agree with
multiplying β by 3000 (which is 100%×30 days/month).
eachotherwithin6kPa(approximately1psi)inflationpressure
10.5 Calculationsofsteadystatelossrateandpredictionsof
after two weeks. Otherwise, recheck the suspect assembly for
futurepressurescanbemadefromanypointinthetest(beyond
leaks according to 7.11, and restart the test.
the first 30 days as explained in X1.3). The accuracy of such
9.4 Inflation pressure readings and concurrent ambient tem-
predictions will depend on the appropriateness of the model as
perature and barometric pressure readings shall be recorded at
well as the precision level of data obtained that, in turn, will
least once per week during the remaining test period. Continu-
depend on factors such as the following:
ous monitoring of ambient temperature is desirable to ensure
10.5.1 Care in reading pressure gauges,
that the tire is at equilibrium temperature when its pressure is
10.5.2 Resolution and accuracy of pressure measuring
measured.
devices,
9.5 Correct inflation pressure readings, P , to the nominal
10.5.3 Maintena
...