Inspection - Visual, NDT and Shearography

The first and most important stage in the retreading process is inspection. At Henise Tire your casings go through three inspections.

The first is a thorough seven step visual inspection to assure tread application compatibility and identify obvious defects or needed repairs. Then the casing goes through two machine inspections. The Hawkinson NDT-2000 uses high voltage current, to detect nail holes and other penetrations through the tire.

In addition to the NDT we have installed Bandag’s newest inspection device, the 7400 Insight casing analyzer. The 7400 utilizes shearographic inspection technology to locate separations. Your tires are scanned from bead to bead, identifying separations and hidden injuries with unmatched accuracy. The 7400’s animated video display indicates where defects are to the operator, making downgrading or rejecting casings simpler and more accurate. All of which assures you of a dependable retread with a lower probability of on the road breakdowns.

Buffing

Bandag's newest buffer, the Model 8400 delivers unmatched finished buff consistency. The 8400 is computer controlled with onboard Tire Facts information. This allows for a precise buffing profile matching the original manufacturer's casing to produce an even wearing retread with optimal mileage.

Cushion Application

Bandag's Model 6400 Extruder applies a cementless application of cushion gum to the buffed casing in exact measurements to insure a tight bond with the applied piece of retread rubber.

Tread Building

The Model 5400 Optimal Splice Matching tread builder may be one of the most innovative pieces of retread machinery built today. The technology to measure and match up the tread exactly at the splice is unsurpassed. Resulting in less stress at the splice, smoother running retreads with a like new appearance, and reduced driver complaints.

Curing

After curing in one of three 22 chambers at a low temperature which helps to maintain casing integrity, the tread bond becomes one of the strongest parts of the tire.

Final Inspection

The tire then goes through a final inspection for added quality assurance and is painted with a butyl rubber emulsion to inhibit weather cracking and provide a new tire appearance. A computer generated label is then applied to the tread area for tracking and identification, and to provide you with accurate retread and scrap tire reports.