Are TPU Inner Tubes Repairable?
02-12-23, 08:38 PM
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Are TPU Inner Tubes Repairable?
The pile of punctured rubber tubes in the garage keeps getting higher and higher, and because they're relatively inexpensive, it will probably keep growing until I sell it all to the nearest rubber fabricator for scrap.
I did a search and can't believe this hasn't been asked...
For the extra outlay, it would be worth it if TPU tubes may be patched.
What's the low-down on this?
I did a search and can't believe this hasn't been asked...
For the extra outlay, it would be worth it if TPU tubes may be patched.
What's the low-down on this?
02-12-23, 09:04 PM
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Yes…at least the Schwalbe Aerothan are. I’m riding one I patched two seasons ago with a Lezyne self-adhesive patch; I did prep the patch area with a wipe of isopropyl alcohol before applying the patch. It seems 100% in that it doesn’t leak down faster than the other, never damaged tube on the other wheel.
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02-13-23, 06:25 AM
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The pile of punctured rubber tubes in the garage keeps getting higher and higher, and because they're relatively inexpensive, it will probably keep growing until I sell it all to the nearest rubber fabricator for scrap.
I did a search and can't believe this hasn't been asked...
For the extra outlay, it would be worth it if TPU tubes may be patched.
What's the low-down on this?
I did a search and can't believe this hasn't been asked...
For the extra outlay, it would be worth it if TPU tubes may be patched.
What's the low-down on this?
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02-13-23, 09:03 AM
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TPU tubes can typically be patched using a compatible adhesive or patch kit. However, the patch's success will depend on the size and location of the puncture, as well as the quality of the adhesive or patch material used. It's best to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific TPU tube and patch kit you plan to use.
02-13-23, 10:38 AM
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Thx. Everytime I add to the pile, I tell myself, "One of these days...One of these days..." New tubes have been so reasonably priced that it's made me un-resourceful, perhaps lazy.
I did my first "find the leak" and patch when I was 6 or 7, part of mandatory training instilled by my late father -- right about the time when I was first reprimanded for blowing bubbles in my milk.
I did my first "find the leak" and patch when I was 6 or 7, part of mandatory training instilled by my late father -- right about the time when I was first reprimanded for blowing bubbles in my milk.
Last edited by michaelm101; 02-13-23 at 10:45 AM.
02-14-23, 12:26 PM
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It's great that you have experience with bike maintenance and repair from a young age, and it's never too late to get back into it. Taking care of your bike can save you money and give you a sense of satisfaction, so don't hesitate to dive back in and tackle those repairs. And remember, even small repairs can make a big difference in the performance of your bike.
02-14-23, 01:08 PM
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Always in search for an on-the-bike patch that will work on any tube, I found some self-adhesive TPU patches that are intended for air mattresses. They look pretty sturdy.
I'm going to try them out and will report back.
I'm going to try them out and will report back.
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02-14-23, 01:14 PM
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Yes, I repaired one and it's fairly easy to do. BUT- it needs to dry overnight. Unlike rubber tubes where you can patch it on the side of the road and pump the tire up and continue riding. In other words you need to carry a spare tube and not just a patch kit if you are running TPU tubes.
02-14-23, 01:19 PM
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In my opinion TPU tubes patch better than either butyl or latex, mainly because the punctures don't seem to tear/expand. I use glueless patches and they seem to work best at sealing the holes. In fact I'm running 2 punctured tpu tubes (now patched) on my road bike with no issues. Once patched, they can easily be put back into service.
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02-14-23, 01:22 PM
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I ordered a bunch of TPU tubes from AliExpress and they came with a TPU patch kit which I don't remember ordering. Haven't tried the patch kit or the tubes yet.
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02-14-23, 02:57 PM
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08-16-23, 05:28 PM
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I just got my first tpu inner tubes. Also got a patch kit. The patch kit says the glue needs to dry for 30 minutes. I don't know if overnight is better or there is something different about the patches and tubes I got.
But I will tell you this. That tube sprung a leak within 3 days installation. Really slow leak, so I pulled out the tube, using a bucket of water found the leak. I am here to tell you, the hole is invisible. I used a jewler's loup and that hole is so small you cannot see it. Only the bubbles and the fait sound of airflow with hole right at the opening of my ear, showed me where the hole is.
I've had tiny holes in butyl inner tubes, but you can see them (until the rubber cement goes on). I will say it again, the hole in this tpu tube is invisible.
But I will tell you this. That tube sprung a leak within 3 days installation. Really slow leak, so I pulled out the tube, using a bucket of water found the leak. I am here to tell you, the hole is invisible. I used a jewler's loup and that hole is so small you cannot see it. Only the bubbles and the fait sound of airflow with hole right at the opening of my ear, showed me where the hole is.
I've had tiny holes in butyl inner tubes, but you can see them (until the rubber cement goes on). I will say it again, the hole in this tpu tube is invisible.
08-16-23, 05:32 PM
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But I will tell you this. That tube sprung a leak within 3 days installation. Really slow leak, so I pulled out the tube, using a bucket of water found the leak. I am here to tell you, the hole is invisible. I used a jewler's loup and that hole is so small you cannot see it. Only the bubbles and the fait sound of airflow with hole right at the opening of my ear, showed me where the hole is.
I've had tiny holes in butyl inner tubes, but you can see them (until the rubber cement goes on). I will say it again, the hole in this tpu tube is invisible.
I've had tiny holes in butyl inner tubes, but you can see them (until the rubber cement goes on). I will say it again, the hole in this tpu tube is invisible.
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