Goodyear launches 63-inch OTR fitments

It’s 13 feet in diameter, weighs almost five and a half tonnes and can be seen in Las Vegas….we are of course talking about the latest and largest member of Goodyear’s OTR tyre family, its 63-inch mining tyre. This giant has made its debut at this week’s MINExpo 2012 show in the US, and will be on display at Goodyear’s stand there until 26 September.

“There is no better place to display our 63-inch tyre than at MINExpo 2012,” commented David Anckaert, general manager, global OTR tyres, Goodyear. “Global demand for high-performing 63-inch OTR tyres remains extremely strong, and we are proud to offer such a robust, highly engineered product for the world’s largest mining and earthmoving equipment.”

The 63-inch tyre joins Goodyear’s RM (Rock Mining) line-up and is available in two fitments, 53/80R63 and 59/80R63. Each is available with E3/E4 tread designs. According to Anckaert, the new size is a natural extension of Goodyear’s full OTR tyre line-up, which has included 57-inch radial OTR tyres for more than two decades. “Our 63-inch tyre contains our latest technologies in materials, design, construction and manufacturing based on more than 25 years of experience in the 57-inch category,” he explained. “The tyre is precision-made, using state-of-the-art, fully integrated tyre manufacturing equipment that is wholly unique to the OTR tyre industry.

“Designed using advanced computer simulation tools – and developed in collaboration with some of the industry’s leading original equipment manufacturers to help ensure size and performance compliance – this tyre represents the culmination of all we have learned over the years, which makes it a ‘must have’ for mining operations that want to achieve optimal productivity while minimising expensive downtime,” he added.

Goodyear’s list the key features of the 63-inch tyre as a robust steel casing and belt construction to help enhance strength; interlocking centre grooves for extra stability; Goodyear’s ‘CycleMax’ tread compound that helps promote cool running; and high-angle, non-directional grooves to help enhance traction across a wide range of demanding surfaces.

The new 63-inch tyres are manufactured at Goodyear’s Topeka, Kansas plant in the US and are available globally. “Goodyear is committed to the entire OTR mining market, including the 63-inch segment,” Anckaert continued. “Our strategy is to focus on high-value tyres for the growing demands of our customers, and we look forward to continuing to serve mining operations that have a need for a high-performing tyre in this specialised size.