Michelin has introduced a new low-pressure tyre specifically designed for self-propelled sprayers. The SprayBib CFO (Cyclical Field Operation) replaces the original SprayBib range and is said to offer a range of benefits.
The new tyres can handle increased load capacities (up to 14% compared to non-CFO tyres) at speeds up to 30kph. A reinforced casing also enables axle loads up to 1.3 tonnes, depending on the tyre size.
Additionally, some sizes are available with the E speed index, meaning that they are suitable for speeds up to 70kph where market legislation allows.
Like the previous generation, the SprayBib CFO is said to provide superb longevity thanks to wide, robust tread lugs and is equipped with more lugs than a standard sprayer tyre.
The advanced casing design combines Very High Flexion (VF) and CFO standards, enabling operating pressures to be reduced by 0.7 bar for cyclic use to reduce soil compaction. On smaller sprayers, operating pressures can be as low as 0.8 bar.
The lower pressure is also said to reduce vibrations transferred to the driver, increasing operator comfort.
A new size in the range
The current VF 420/90 R34 is normally fitted on small self-propelled sprayers and can quickly reach its load capacity. Michelin has now introduced the VF 420/90 R34 to the SprayBib CFO range, enabling operators to increase load capacity or reduce pressure.
Gordon Brookes, Michelin’s customer engineering support manager, said: “Self-propelled sprayer manufacturers are developing models with increasingly large tank volumes of up to 10,000 litres, and boom widths that can exceed 50m. As a result, the loads carried by the tyres are getting ever bigger.
“In addition, the demands on the tyre are very high due to increased road work. The new Michelin SprayBib CFO range will allow us to accentuate the benefits of the existing tyres in this category that we have on the market, and to meet rapidly evolving user expectations.”
The new range will be available in 12 sizes and introduced to the UK market from now until December 2022.
For more information go to www.michelin.com