Soccer Ball

Product Testing Institute (PTI)

Frequently Asked Questions

About PTI

What does PTI do?

PTI is an independent, accredited tyre testing laboratory serving manufacturers, importers, and engineering teams. We conduct load, speed and endurance tests, rolling resistance tests, bead unseating tests, and plunger tests for passenger, truck and bus tyres. Our aim is to support safety, compliance, and product development in South Africa’s tyre industry.

PTI is a non-profit organisation. It has no shareholders and operates independently to ensure unbiased and accurate testing.

Yes. PTI is accredited by SANAS in accordance with ISO 17025 and ISO 9000.
We are accredited to perform testing under:

  • SANS 20030 (Passenger and Light Truck)

  • SANS 20054 (Truck and Bus)

Testing & Compliance

What tests can PTI perform?

We currently conduct:

  • Load/Speed/Endurance testing

  • Rolling resistance testing

  • Plunger (puncture resistance) testing

  • Bead unseating testing

These tests apply to passenger, truck and bus tyres

We test:

  • Passenger tyres

  • Light truck tyres

  • Commercial truck tyres

  • Bus tyres

Testing is carried out according to recognised national and international standards, including:

  • SANS 20030

  • SANS 20054

  • UNECE regulations (various)

  • Additional industry-accepted methodologies where applicable

Test durations vary depending on the type of test:

  • Passenger tyre endurance test: ±1 hour

  • Truck and bus endurance test: ±47 hours

  • Rolling resistance, bead unseating and plunger tests may vary depending on tyre type and requirements.

Yes. All PTI test reports are clear, accredited, and formatted for use in NRCS applications and compliance documentation.

Facilities & Support

Does PTI have conference or training facilities?

Yes. PTI offers:

  • A 50-seater auditorium with audiovisual equipment

  • A 12-seat boardroom

  • Workstations for up to 12 people

  • A dedicated video conferencing room

These spaces are available for client meetings, training and technical sessions.

Yes, clients may observe tests when scheduled in advance, subject to safety protocols.

Our laboratory is fitted with state-of-the-art machinery designed for:

  • Endurance testing

  • Rolling resistance testing

  • Bead unseating assessments

  • Plunger/penetration resistance

  • Wheel rim fatigue evaluations

Equipment is regularly calibrated to maintain ISO 17025 alignment.

Submitting Tyres & Receiving Results

How do I submit tyres for testing?

You can deliver tyres directly to PTI or arrange a courier delivery. We log and register the tyres on arrival before beginning any testing.

  • You submit tyre specifications and required tests.

  • PTI provides a detailed quotation.

  • Tyres are delivered and logged.

  • Accredited tests are performed.

  • You receive a complete test report.

Reports are emailed as digital PDF documents. Printed copies are available on request.

Pricing & Quotations

How do I request a quote?

You can request a quote by submitting your tyre size, rating, and the tests required via our online form or by contacting our team directly.

Pricing depends on:

    • Tyre size and category

    • Type and number of required tests

    • Turnaround time

    • Volume of tyres submitted

Yes. Clients who test multiple tyres or conduct ongoing testing programmes may qualify for reduced or contract rates.