Michelin North America says it is launching its most aggressive answer for underground mining (UGM) tyres, specifically made for loaders and transport machines operating in extreme conditions.
Available immediately, the X Mine D2 Pro and the XSM D2+ Pro Line are designed with three key benefits: increased load capacity, improved tyre life and improved aggression resistance.
“Underground mining managers demand products that reduce downtime while keeping their operators safe. They do not want underground equipment to stop working due to tyre limitations,” said Jake Thompson, Michelin marketing manager – mining. “The Pro Line is specifically designed to address the tough conditions found in underground mines and reduce downtime.”
The X Mine Pro series has an increased load capacity of up to 18% engineered into the L5 UGM tyre through a reinforced 3-star casing and two extra plies which contain crossed-nylon cords encased in rubber for greater resistance and toughness.
Underground mining conditions can bring a premature end to a tyre as it encounters sharp rocks, standing water and narrow tunnels. End users highly value a tyre which can reach end of life without having to scrap prematurely. To improve tyre life, Michelin has incorporated NRF technology that reinforces the sidewalls and resists sidewall injuries from migrating. By significantly improving overall tyre life, mines may have to purchase fewer tyres and allow them to improve profitability.
Improved aggression resistance is made possible through significant improvements to the cables and tread compounds. The encapsulated cables, found in the working plies, provide better protection against aggressions and oxidation. To endure the harshest of conditions, the tyre contains optimised tread compounds.