The
Retread Multi-Piece Cushion technology , a Goodyear innovation
designed to extend the life of truck tire retread cushions, while
improving quality and performance, has been named “Tire
Manufacturing Innovation of the Year” by Tire Technology
International, an independent, international jury of tire
professionals, engineers, and academic scholars.
“Goodyear
is focused on delivering market-driven innovation to our customers
and consumers around the world,” said Jean-Claude Kihn, chief
technical officer for The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. “We
are honored to once again be recognized by Tire Technology
International for the innovative Multi-Piece Cushion technology,
which will be highly valued by our customers.”
The
only product of its kind in the tire industry, Goodyear’s
Multi-Piece Cushion contains three distinct layers, according to Jay
Hofner, general manager, retread for Goodyear’s North American Tire
business.
“One
of these layers is a barrier extending the product’s shelf life,”
said Hofner. “This is a big advantage for Goodyear Authorized
Retreaders.”
The
Multi-Piece Cushion’s other layers, he noted, consist of carefully
selected ingredients that, when mixed together, complete the curing
package. Multi-Piece Cushion is heat-resistant, eliminating the need
for refrigeration, another advantage for Goodyear Authorized
Retreaders.
“And its round shape is unique, making it more user-friendly,” noted Hofner. “Traditional truck tire cushion gum is flat, with edges and corners that can stick to other layers of cushion gum.”