Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT) has unveiled a 57-inch OTR tire prototype that is currently in the testing phase.
The Earthmax SR 468 is the latest addition to BKT's Earthmax family of OTR tires and has been designed for rigid dump truck applications.
"With this giant 57-inch tire, the prototype of which has been made thanks to the extraordinary determination of my fellow workers, we wish to send a positive message to the market, to our partner distributors and to our end users," says Rajiv Poddar, joint managing director of BKT.
"Thanks to enthusiasm and know-how, BKT always finds new ways to grow, even in the most complex situations," he adds.
The prototype "will now be subject to the most rigorous testing up to the spring of 2021, until we are sure we have achieved the highest possible level of quality and reliability, as always," says Dilip Vaidya, BKT president and director of technology.
Tires in the BKT Earthmax range have an all-steel structure, which provides enhanced durability and damage protection; a special tread design; and a heat-resistant compound. "The E-4 depth of the tread provides extreme resistance in highly challenging conditions."
In its December 2019 issue, MTD reported that BKT was planning to add a 57-inch tire to its lineup. "We've seen good pick-up" in OTR tire demand, said Rajiv Poddar at the time.
