Construction Equipment magazine has named tires from Bridgestone Corp., Group Michelin and Titan International Inc. to its list of the 100 most significant products launched during 2011.
Michelin earned two nominations, for its XDR2 haul truck tire and XHA2 loader tire.
Construction Equipment's recognizing these two tire lines “affirms the value that these tires provide to the end user,” said Bruce Besancon, director of marketing for Michelin Earthmover Tires.
According to the publication, the awards bring special attention to the most significant products each year and emphasize innovations, highlighting manufacturers that are investing in research and development. The winners were chosen by the editorial staff, drawing on input from readers and the editorial staff's experience with equipment technology and the equipment marketplace.
The XDR2 offers up to 20 percent more tread life than its predecessor, Michelin said, and is available in 27R49 with additional sizes in preparation. The XHA2, intended for loaders in quarries, cement plants and on construction worksites, is designed to reduce hourly operating costs and improve operator working conditions, the tire maker said. It comes in four sizes: 20.5R25, 23.5R25, 26.5R25 and 29.5R25.
The other tires recognized are the Bridgestone DuraLoad and Titan IT525 backhoe-loader radial tires.
Bridgestone's DuraLoad, available in size 45/65-45 in both L4 and L5 configurations, features a flatter crown radius for larger, more even footprint pressure and less heat generation, the company said.
The Titan IT525 is designed for working on hard surfaces, including concrete and asphalt, as well as providing good traction in soft soils. It is an extension of its bias predecessor and is available in a 500/85R24, while the bias is offered in seven sizes.