The Bandag Retread Process

Modern retreading is a lesson in simplicity. In 10 expedient stages, the process is complete, and your fleet is safely back on the road.

Sullivan Tire assigns a unique barcode to every casing so it can be tracked in real time, making retreading more efficient. Here’s how the rest of the process unfolds.

Step 1: Initial Inspection

Trained Bandag specialists perform a visual, hands-on inspection from bead to bead inside and out. This is done to find and mark all visible injuries.

Step 2: Electrical Inspection

Actual damage can be closely evaluated by looking “through-the-tire” in the crown and sidewall areas that may not be visible to the naked eye.

Step 3: Shearography

This determines conditions within the casing, subjecting it to a vacuum while lasers measure surface anomalies. An animated visual of the anomalies determines casing condition.

Step 4: Buffing

At this stage, the casing is inflated to its operational shape. The process removes the worn tread surface, trues up the roundness and prepares the surface for a new tread.

Step 5: Repair

Any damaged material identified during initial inspection is removed and repairs are made, essentially returning the casing to a useful life.

Step 6: Applying Cushion

An uncured bonding layer is extruded onto the prepared casing surface and all skives are filled. The casing is ready for a new tread.

Step 7: Building

A new tread is automatically applied with attention to precise detail. The tread must be straight and perfectly centered on the casing.

Step 8: Enveloping

The assembled but uncured tire is encased in an elastic envelope and prepared for curing.

Step 9: Curing

The curing chamber causes the bonding layer in the tire to cure and permanently adhere the new tread.

Step 10: Final Inspection

A visual, hands-on inspection is repeated to ensure our quality specifications are met.