Alliance Tire Group (ATG) is expanding its selection of steel-belted VF (very high flexion) tires with four new sizes specifically designed for self-propelled sprayers. VF tire technology—which allows for greater flex in the sidewall—has been incorporated into the Alliance Agriflex 354 and 363 lines.
The Agriflex 354 and 363 models initially were created as IF (increased flexion) tires. Because of the increased flexibility in their sidewalls and special bead packages, the new Agriflex 354 VF and Agriflex 363 VF lines can carry up to 40% greater load at the same level of inflation as their conventional radial counterparts, or carry the same load with 30% less inflation pressure.
With the introduction of the Agriflex 354 VF in 380/80R38, 320/105R46 and 480/95R50 sizes and the Agriflex 363 VF in 270/95R48 (11.2R48) Alliance’s IF/VF offerings include 44 sizes in three designs.
Trent Wallin, agriculture product manager for Alliance Tire Americas, says the company's IF and VF line is unique as Alliance is the only brand to offer steel-belted construction in all of its IF and VF tires.
“VF technology is ideal for self-propelled sprayers because of the demands placed on farmers and custom applicators to carry larger tanks and simultaneously reduce soil compaction,” says Wallin. “Since soil compaction pressure is nearly equal to tire inflation pressure, reducing inflation pressure under a heavy load can have benefits that last for years in the soil. The steel belts we build into our IF and VF tires ensure extra durability and puncture resistance and create a more uniform footprint, which improves traction and stability.”
At lower inflation pressures, VF technology allows for a dramatic increase in the footprint of the tire, Wallin says. The result is not only less soil compaction from distributing the load’s weight over more surface area, but also the other benefits of greater flotation, including higher traction, better fuel economy and less disturbance of the soil surface, he says.
“The Agriflex line also includes a variety of special tread patterns that deliver better handling on and off the road, longer wear and durability and increased comfort at higher speeds,” Wallin points out. “Our tires are designed for extra stability, reliable braking, and wear and puncture resistance. For us, it’s all about keeping our customers more productive in the field and safer on the road.”
Wallin says ATG also has introduced its popular Alliance 550 Multi-Use Tire tire in sizes suitable for sprayers.
The new Alliance Agriflex VF and Alliance 550 Multi-Use tires are available through Alliance Tire dealers. Call your dealer or visit www.atgtire.com for details.
