Vredestein Tyres, part of Apollo Tyres, and Samson Agro completed an in-depth tyre test in Denmark’s Viborg area to explore ways to improve the efficiency of organic fertiliser handling.
Samson Agro and Vredestein Tyres Collaborate on Innovative Slurry Tanker Tyre Test
Apollo Tyres and Samson Agro led a detailed tyre test in Denmark’s Viborg region, aiming to optimise handling organic fertilisers.
This collaborative study examined five different sizes of Vredestein slurry tanker tyres, evaluating their impact on fuel consumption, soil compaction, and overall performance in both field and road conditions.
The test was carried out with a Tractor Case Puma 260 CVX with the Samson PG II Genesis tandem axle slurry tanker. The tested tyres were as follows:
- Vredestein Flotation Trac 650/55 R26.5
- Vredestein Flotation Trac 750/60 R30.5 (reference tyre)
- Vredestein Flotation Optimall VF 750/60 R30.5
- Vredestein Flotation Trac 800/60 R32
- Vredestein Flotation Trac 800/60 R38
Tyre Diameter Effect
The results in the field indicate that upgrading from the smallest Vredestein tyre to the biggest provides substantial gains, with notable improvements in fuel efficiency and reduced soil compaction. Compared to the reference tyre, fuel savings of up to 14% were achieved with the largest tyre.
The wheel slip reduced significantly (up to 30%) from the smallest to the biggest tyre, although the benefits levelled off between the larger sizes. The increased footprint of the larger tyre distributes the tyre load more evenly across the soil, resulting in a soil contact pressure of less than 1.0 bar, which helps to reduce soil compaction and protect the land.
VF vs non-VF
Fuel savings in the field are further strengthened when VF technology is applied, enabling the tyre to adapt flexibly to varying loads and terrain. Compared to the non-VF reference tyre of the same dimension, fuel savings of up to 8% were achieved with the Vredestein Flotation Optimall VF 750/60 R30.5.
The test showed small differences in fuel use for operations with substantial road travel. However, the Vredestein Flotation Optimall VF tyre was the most economical.
Benefits of Inflation Pressure Regulation and Wheel Drive
The test also highlighted the added benefits of tyre pressure regulation using a central tyre inflation system (CTIS). This adjusts pressure between fieldwork and on-road transport to ensure optimal tyre performance.
This feature enhances soil protection and significantly reduces fuel usage by up to 10%. Additionally, equipping the slurry tanker with wheel drive significantly minimises track depth by up to 16% and reduces soil compaction.
In summary, the results emphasise the value of choosing the appropriate tyre. VF technology, wheel drive, and tyre pressure regulation systems further optimise tyre performance. Wheels with a small diameter can be advantageous with a lot of road transport. In contrast, wheels with a large diameter are most advantageous in the field or work with short road transport.
These solutions offer clear cost efficiency and sustainability advantages. They help farmers and contractors maximise machine performance and avoid soil compaction to safeguard valuable farmland.
Agromek 2024
Further technical information and performance data are available at Agromek 2024, the Danish agricultural machinery exhibition being held in Herning from 26 to 29 November. Visit Vredestein Tyres: Hall F | Stand 5052, and SAMSON AGROLIZE A/S: Hall G | Stand 5750.
