Michelin Earthmover recently introduced a new mining tire for 250-ton haul trucks and said it could increase hauling productivity at least 24%, based on ton miles per hour (tmph). The new tire, the XDR250 50/80R57, was developed to fit Cat 793F and Komatsu 830E AC haul trucks. According to Michelin, it features significant technical advancements: greater load capacity, lower operating temperature, faster driving speed, higher level of performance for improved productivity and longer life cycle.
“Rigid dump trucks are the lifeblood of open-pit mining operations. These tires need to deliver maximum productivity, safety and durability to eliminate downtime,” said Jamey Fish, director of earthmover marketing for Michelin North America. “This tire carries a 67-ton nominal load capacity at a faster speed with a longer life cycle. Michelin is delivering solutions that can increase mine profitability through lower operating costs.”
A new tread pattern incorporates smaller rubber blocks crossed by grooves that optimize air flow and cooling. The tire runs 17°F cooler in the crown, allowing it to carry a heavier load at the same speed or to increase the average operating speed.
To match the growing capacity of this new generation of machines, the XDR250 contains an additional 9.2% in air volume. The tire has an integrated sensor system that measures both tire pressure and temperature. Real-time alerts are sent to the mine’s operator in the control room to notify in the event that a tire is overheating or is over- or underinflated so immediate action can be taken.
