Samson Agro and Apollo Tyres have completed an in-depth tyre test in the Viborg area of Denmark to explore ways to enhance the efficiency of organic fertilizer handling. This collaborative study examined five different sizes of Vredestein slurry tanker tyre, 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
Vredestein Flotation Trac tyre in action
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. Fuel savings of up to 14% were achieved with the largest tyre compared to the reference tyre. The wheel slip reduced significantly (up to 30%) from the smallest tyre to the biggest, although the benefits level-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. Fuel savings up to 8% were achieved with the Vredestein Flotation Optimall VF 750/60 R30.5 compared to the non-VF reference tyre of the same dimension.
For operations with substantial road travel, the test showed small differences in fuel use. However, the Vredestein Flotation Optimall VF tyre turned out to be the most economical in the tests.
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), which adjusts pressure between fieldwork and on-road transport to ensure optimal tyre performance. This feature not only enhances soil protection but also significantly reduces fuel usage, by up to 10%. Additionally, equipping the slurry tanker with wheel drive significantly minimised track depth up to 16% and reducing 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 the tyre performance. Wheels with a small diameter can be advantageous with a lot of road transport. Whereas wheels with a large diameter are most advantageous in the field or work with short road transport. These solutions offer clear advantages for both cost efficiency and sustainability, helping farmers and contractors maximise machine performance and avoid soil compaction to safeguard valuable farmland.
Further technical information and performance data is 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.
21 November 2024
Anicecommunication, media relations Apollo Tyres – Vredestein Italy
