Cross-Section of a Radial Ply Tire

1 -	Tread Block

2 -	Tread Groove

3 -

Tread

4 -

Nylon Ply

5 -	Belt Layers

Consists mostly of steel

6 -	Bead Bundle

Consists of steel wires vulcanized into rubber

Make sure secure seating of the tire on the rim

7 -	Bead Filler

8 -	Wheel Flange Protection

Protects the rim and tire from abrasion due to, for example, contact with the curb.

Tires with flange protection are designated by the abbreviation MFS.

The nylon ply -4-, belts -5-, bead cores -6- and bead reinforcements -7- make up the carcass. The carcass is the “load-bearing structure” of the tire.