Implement Tire Trends

by | May 12, 2016 | Better Performance, Featured | 0 comments

What is going on with Implement Ag Tires?  Topic of discussion is changing I-1 Free rolling multi-rib tire that is used on variety of towed implements.

 

Old vs. New
For decades the Bias Ply constructed 9.5L-15, 11L-15 and 12.5L-15 I-1 tires were staples of the market. If you wanted something more than standard, the most advanced tire was the higher speed rated Bias Ply DOT approved F-I, with same straight rib design.

Soil compaction awareness, larger implements, higher equipment speeds and prolonged road service have driven the industry to change with the following improvements:

  1. Radial Construction.
  2. IF/VF Technology.
  3. Improved Tread Designs to improve roll.

Old vs New Implement

BIG Difference

When comparing Old vs. New technology, load and pressure specifications have changed dramatically. Reason:  they make a big impact on reducing soil compaction and increasing yield.

Before we dig in, a quick reminder. Just like Radial Rear Tractor, Modern Implement tires are changing from Standard to Metric sizing (i.e. 11L-15 is now stated as IF280/70R15) along with changing from ply to load index (12 ply is now stated 128D).  For more information on this visit our Sidewall Identification page https://agtiretalk.com/sidewall-identification/

For this exercise we will compare one of the most common Bias Implements used today, the 11L-15 F-I 12 ply Highway Service versus Modern Radial Firestone IF280/70R15 128D.

Air Pressure Difference
11L15 12 ply F-I
Max Load 3,960 lbs.
Inflation Pressure 90 PSI

IF280/70R15 128D
Max Load 3,960 lbs.
Inflation Pressure 52 PSI

As shown above, IF280/70R15 128D can carry same load using 57% less air pressure. In other words, PSI or Pounds Per Square Inch on the ground is reduced from 90 PSI to 52 PSI- a very big difference.

Footprint Difference
Also, contact patch is increased with Radial IF offering compared to Bias, as shown in below flat plate measurements.

11L15 12 ply F-I
75 square inches

IF280/70R15 128D
78 square inches

Rolling Difference
Lastly, traditional straight rib tread design, especially in muddy conditions, tends to plow through the field as opposed to roll, exacerbating soil compaction. New varied tread modern designs are designed to continue rolling in varied conditions and applications.

Sum
Less Pressure, Larger Footprint, and Better Roll under wide array of conditions makes today’s IF VF Radial Implement tire a far superior option in the never ending quest to improve yield!

All information is provided in this blog solely to provoke thought. All deductions made from information on this site must be confirmed by Certified Ag Tire Dealer before use. Ag Tire Talk does not recommend anyone conduct tire service work with exception of Certified Ag Tire Dealer Professionals.

 

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