IPA's tool compares diameter on dual-mated tires

Innovative Products of America Inc.’s (IPA) Tire Comparator (Type II) is a consistent caliper for comparing tire diameter on dual-mated tires.

Officials said the company launched the comparator to help ensure the greatest fuel economy and tire life possible to help tire dealers and fleet professionals reduce costs.

Even the smallest discrepancies in mated tires can result in a loss of fuel economy and tread life, according to IPA. A fourth-inch variance in size, for example, will cause the larger tire to support a far greater load, which results in accelerated tread wear and increased heating on the larger tire. In addition, repeated scuffing will occur on the smaller tire with each rotation. These factors increase rolling resistance, which decreases fuel economy and reduces tire lifespan.

The Tire Comparator (Type II) provides an easy method of ensuring mated tires are within tolerance. The sliding tolerance gauge requires no measuring, guessing or visual inspection. To use it, it should be held against the tire, and then slid across the treads for a quick pass/fail result.

The comparator is made in the U.S. from a lightweight, durable aluminum construction. Special tread wear adapter gauges are also available for any rim size, making Tire Comparator (Type II) compatible with all dual-mated tires, according to IPA.