Purpose of Cutting the Sidewall
The main reason for cutting the tire sidewall during recycling is to facilitate the removal of the metal bead, which is embedded in the tire’s structure. The bead contains steel wires that need to be separated from the rubber for efficient recycling. Cutting the sidewall provides access to the bead, making it easier to extract the metal, which can then be recycled separately.
Benefits of This Process
- Efficient Metal Separation: Removing the bead early ensures the metal is separated cleanly, preventing contamination of the rubber.
- Reduced Equipment Wear: This step reduces wear and tear on shredding machines, as metal can damage the blades.
- Better Quality Recycled Rubber: Cleaner rubber without metal fragments is suitable for various applications, like playground surfaces or construction materials.
- Specific Uses: Cut sidewalls are sometimes used as silage covers in agriculture, providing a durable and lightweight option.
Surprising Detail: Agricultural Use
It’s surprising that cut sidewalls are repurposed for silage covers, helping farmers manage moisture and reduce mosquito breeding, which also prevents diseases like West Nile virus.
Reproduction is not allowed without permission.:Rumtoo » Why the Sidewall is Cut in Tire Recycling