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How Formula X Work

Before we can explain how does Formula X work, you need to understand the simple concept of rubber elasticity.

The principle of Rubber Memory- (Also known as elasticity of rubber)

The ability of rubber to return to its original shape after it has been stretched is known as elasticity of rubber or rubber memory. A simple example of this would be a rubber band. You can stretch the rubber band when pulled, and yet the rubber band will return to its original shape and size when the pulling force is removed. Rubber is an example of a natural polymer. The chains of molecules in rubber have a natural elasticity: they can stretch when pulled. When the pulling force is removed, the elastic polymers in rubber spring back to their original length. This elasticity of rubber is however reduced due to climatic conditions and eventual wear & tear, i.e. the rubber band turns brittle after prolonged use. Also, if stretched beyond a certain limit the rubber band will break.

A similar concept applies to the tyre, which is of course made of rubber. The elasticity of rubber helps the tyres grip the road and holds on to puncture plugs when punctures are fixed externally. In an event of a puncture in a Formula X gel coated tyre, the gel prevents air loss from the puncture by covering the leak. This means you can safely continue to ride or drive without even realising that you have had a puncture. This will save you time and trouble. All you need to do is inspect your tyre once in a while for any punctured objects and remove them carefully. A short drive after the removal of the object will allow the Formula X gel to begin the curing process and instantly repair the puncture automatically. This is a permanent seal and does not require an external fix. Thus providing a repair which is impervious to external elements like water, mud, dirt, snow etc.

Image 1: Formula X gel remains coated as a permanent ring inside the tyre
Image 2: Formula X gel coat blocks the air leakage when punctured
Image 3: Inspect the tyre and remove the puncturing object
Image 4: A short drive will permanently repair the puncture

The same Formula X Gel tyre sealant is suitable for both tube and tubeless tyres. However functioning and effectiveness of the Formula X Gel differ, considering the fundamental difference in construction of the tube and tubeless tyres. The tube based tyre is weaker and requires more preventive care as compared to a tubeless tyre.

Formula X working method and explanation:

Formula X Gel tyre sealant working explained in a Tube based tyre:

  1. The Formula X gel forms a permanent coat on the inner surface of the tube.
  2. When punctured the gel blocks the air leakage from the puncture and keeps the tube inflated by surrounding the puncturing area. A tube without the Formula X gel will deflate immediately causing a flat.
  3. Considering that a tube is sensitive to motion and will tear if driven under inflated, it is extremely important to maintain the air pressure in the tyre with or without the Formula X gel coat.
  4. Inspect the tyre regularly for any puncturing objects. If found, re-inflate the tyre by an extra 5 PSI to compensate for any air loss that may occur when the object is removed. The puncture hole will contract in the tube when the object is removed from the tyre & tube.
  5. As soon as the object is removed air pressure will force a small quantity of the gel out of the puncture wound.
  6. Immediately drive a short distance of around 100 to 200 meters for the gel to automatically repair the tube. This allows the tyre rubber to flex and Formula X to complete its job.
  7. The Formula X gel has rubber particles which will work with other ingredients to form a rubberised seal in the contracting hole of the tube. This is a permanent repair and will not require an external fix.
  8. Top up the tyre to the recommended air pressure before using the tyre again.

Formula X Gel tyre sealant working explained in a Tube based tyre:

  1. The Formula X gel forms a permanent coat on the inner surface of the tubeless tyre.
  2. In an event of a puncture, the rubber elasticity of the tyre holds the object, while the tyre experiences a slow air leak that will eventually lead to a flat tyre when without the Formula X gel coat. In a Formula X coated tyre the gel will block the air leakage by surrounding the punctured area and keep the tyre inflated as long as the rubber in that region retains its elasticity.
  3. Inspect the tyre for any puncturing objects regularly. If found, re-inflate the tyre by an extra 5 PSI to compensate for any air loss that may occur when the object is removed. The puncture hole in the tyres tread will contract when the object is removed.
  4. As soon as the object is removed air pressure will force a small quantity of the gel out of the puncture wound.
  5. Immediately drive for a short distance of around 100 to 200 meters for the gel to automatically repair the puncture. This allows the tyre rubber to flex and Formula X to complete its job.
  6. The Formula X gel has rubber particles which will work with other ingredients to form a rubberised seal in the contracting hole of the tread of the tyre. This is a permanent repair and will not require an external fix.
  7. Top up the tyre to the recommended air pressure before using the tyre again.