The new 40.00 R57 and 53/80 R63 Michelin XDR3 tires have been designed for rigid dump trucks operating in surface mines. The XDR3 incorporates three key innovations, which together increase tire life by a minimum of 10% compared with its predecessor, the XDR 2.
The development program for the new tire took more than six years and covered more than 25 million test kilometers.
A new tread pattern offers better endurance due to improved heat dissipation capabilities – 8°C cooler in the tread area. A greater volume of tread rubber is in contact with the ground, which improves wear and ensures better load distribution throughout the contact patch due to a lower contact pressure. Finally, interlocking shoulder blocks resist excessive movement during cornering and further reduce tire wear.
An exclusive new mixing process ensures a more uniform composition of rubber compounds and a superior level of carbon black dispersion that increases wear resistance. Each unique compound offers specific performance characteristics adapted to site conditions and usage, from high wear resistance to high thermal capacity for speed.
The high-strength steel cables used in the tire’s casing are 10% stronger than in the XDR2 and are encapsulated in rubber to prevent the spread of corrosion within the casing, which extends the life of the tire.
