CargoXbib order record broken with increased flotation tyre popularity

Farmers and contractors are specifying flotation tyres on increasing numbers of new-build agricultural trailers and Lincolnshire-based trailer manufacturer Bailey Trailers says it has responded to this market demand with the single largest order for Michelin’s CargoXbib tyres ever placed in the UK. A total of 1,100 CargoXbib tyres are being delivered to its Sleaford factory in 2011, a figure that nearly doubles the 600 supplied last year. Michelin explains the specialist tyres and wheels offer increased ground protection and lower rolling resistance compared with remould truck tyres.

Michael Bailey, sales director at family-owned Bailey Trailers, says: “Flotation trailer tyres are in high-demand, particularly on our TB arable trailers and Beeteaper root crop models.  We’re expecting at least 40 per cent of our manufacturing output this year to be delivered to customers on CargoXbibs.  It’s an area of the trailer’s specification where we are witnessing a very noticeable change in customer demand.”

Michelin adds that, alongside the increased productivity efficiency offered by the tyre, the CargoXbib’s radial casing and reinforced construction ensure an increased load capacity at speeds up to 40 mph (65 kmh), whilst the tyre’s tread blocks help improve overall trailer stability, particularly when tipping trailers are in the raised position. They also offer better handling on side slopes by providing an effective support base. Low pressures and the radial casing technology also improve shock absorption and reduce wear and tear on machinery.

Bailey adds: “Specifying flotation tyres adds about £2,000 to the total trailer cost in comparison with standard truck remoulds.  Farmers need to justify this investment against restricting themselves to operating on single paths, or performing the necessary repair works to their land afterwards.”

Rob Beddis, commercial director of Michelin’s agricultural division, explains: “A truck remould is typically inflated to around 100psi, whereas a CargoXbib floats over the surface at between 17psi and 35psi, depending on the tyre size and load being carried.  Using on-road truck tyres can do untold damage to the sub-soil if the tyres leave deep ruts – farmers are effectively risking not being able to grow on that area of land again.”

Bailey Trailers are built to withstand the rigours of modern farming practices and benefit from intelligent design and advanced engineering. Last year saw the company move into a new purpose-built manufacturing facility boasting more than 50,000 sq ft of production space.