Groupe Michelin introduced its Michelin XHA2 loader tire at the Intermat 2009 Building and Construction Trade Show in Paris, France, this week.
The tire is designed to accomplish three goals, according to Michelin: reduce hourly operating costs, ensure that work continues smoothly and safely, and improve operator working conditions. It is intended for loaders in quarries and cement plants and on construction and infrastructure worksites.
The tire will be available in replacement markets around the world beginning in May 2009.
The XHA2 features three technologies. Additional rubber has been incorporated in the tread, making the tire more damage-resistant than its predecessor, the Michelin XHA. In addition, the sidewalls have been strengthened with a special protective rib and anti-scrape shields.
The third technology -- crack-absorbing rubber compounds -- helps prevent flats.
The tire also has a new casing design that enhances its value. Its robust underlying structure "makes the tire easier to retread."
In addition to its durability, the Michelin XHA2 tread pattern provides superior traction to the XHA. It also is self-cleaning, adds the company.
The XHA2 will be available in the original equipment market in 2010. It will be available in two sizes for the replacement market; the sizes will be introduced as follows:
* 26.5R25, May 2009; and
* 23.5R25, July 2009.
Two additional sizes, 29.5R25 and 20.5R25, will be introduced in 2010.
