Tyres carry more, but with less damage

Increasing load per axle means greater pressure on the ground, which compacts the soil, reducing soil aeration and water absorption. Compaction disrupts crop growth, thus reducing yield.

Michelin Ultraflex technology supports developments in farm machinery, enhancing productivity while also preserving the soil.

Capable of operating at low pressure while supporting more load and more speed, they also offer better traction, which in turn improves productivity in the field, boosting crop yields.

On show will be the Michelin XeoBib and Yieldbib tyres which are integrated with Michelin's Ultraflex technology, making it possible to carry heavier loads at low pressure (less than 1 bar); the Yieldbib offers benefits to the cropping industry and the SprayBib offers 40% more load capacity with 43% less pressure than a conventional tyre.

"Increasingly farmers find themselves under increasing pressure to be more efficient; they are well aware of soil compaction and the negative effect it has on their productivity. This is where modern tyre technology is playing a strong part in the evolution of farming practices" said Andrew Gillam, TRS sales and marketing manager.

BKT, NZ's largest selling agricultural tyre brand, has also developed a new range of increased flexibility tyres to combat the issue of soil compaction; the Agrimax Fortis was created for high-powered tractors used daily for transport, seeding and soil-engaging applications.

Said to be able to support and carry heavy loads at lower inflation pressures than a standard tyre, its wide tread footprint allows for even distribution of weight on the ground without damaging the soil.