COVINGTON, Ga. (June 14, 2004) — Michelin Retread Technologies Inc. is doubling capacity for “Pre-Mold” precured tread rubber at its 5-year-old Covington tread rubber plant to meet increased demand.
The expansion will include adding capacity for new technologies, including co-extruded rubber and extra-wide treads for Michelin's X One wide single truck tires, said John Yarbro, facility manager.
Michelin did not disclose the cost of the project nor when it should be on stream. The firm spent $15 million in 1999 to build the 92,000-sq.-ft. structure.
Since the plant opened in late 1999, the number of licensed MRT retread shops has nearly doubled to 45 from 23. The latest to sign on with Michelin is Strouhal Tire Inc. in Hungerford, Texas, which is converting from the Bandag Inc. system and consolidating two plants into one.
Michelin claims its MRT system “brings new-tire technology to retreaded tires” through the use of proprietary Michelin tread rubber compounds and patterns.