Canned tire inflator

Canned tire inflators fall under the road assistance product category and are mainly packaged in cold-rolled steel cans. The main function of this type of tire inflator is to provide a quick solution to drivers who experience flat tires. These tire inflators first seal the punctured tire and then reinflate it with enough air to allow the vehicle to be driven to a nearby tire shop.

Canned tire inflators have three main components: solvents, sealants, and propellants. The solvents are utilized to make the sealants adhere to the rubber tire; meanwhile the sealant’s function is to seal the puncture in the tire. Finally, propellant is designed to push the sealant through the can and into the tire and add air to re-inflate the tire.

In the United States, there are several manufacturers for this type of product. Fix-A-Flat is currently the leader in sales and represents approximately 83% of the market share. The respective size of the tire on any particular vehicle will determine the size of the can required. The major brands carry 12oz, 16oz, and 20oz cans and the average cost for an end consumer is between five and ten dollars depending on the size of the can. Fix-A-Flat claims to be safe to leave in your vehicle at all temperatures, but it can explode in your car. So use care when storing it. To remove it while it is still wet, use soap and water. To remove it after it's dry, use odorless mineral spirits. [1]

Current issues

References

  1. ^ A phone call made to the company on 7/28/2009