Timber trailer tyre trial triumphs

Scottish timber specialist James Jones & Sons has been trialling a tyre system designed to reduce the impact of timber trailers on rural and forest roads. Bespoke Dennison and SDC trailers, equipped with Tireboss central tyre-inflation systems and Michelin X One MaxiTrailer tyres, increase the trailer's footprint and consequently the surface area supporting the vehicle. Soil erosion and road damage are therefore claimed to be reduced.

Jonathan Ritchie, harvesting and transport manager at James Jones, says: "Until now, the Highland Council refused to allow vehicles with trailers fitted with super singles onto specific rural roads because of the damage caused to the road surfaces. However, after demonstrating the performance of these trailers, the council was hugely impressed and gave us permission to use these roads if we use these tyres."

The trial involved a new Volvo FH480 and a Scania R-series. "It was also noticed that the new trailer tyres float over mud, acting as a compactor rather than cutting into the ground, therefore greatly reducing the impact on forest roads. This is made possible by simply deflating these wider tyres, which then produce an even larger footprint to spread the weight," adds Ritchie. "With tyre life extended, it means tyre costs and related services have also been cut.

"Drivers have reported improved comfort levels while giving better performance on tarred roads, but more so on forest roads and especially in wet and muddy conditions. The trailers are also considerably more stable."

Source : roadtransport