The new generation of truck tyre
Issue: Autumn 2008
Dunlop, one of the world's leading manufacturers of commercial vehicle tyres, recently launched a major range of new tyres for the road haulage market that are destined to become the company's best selling range. The Dunlop SP344 steer tyre and SP444 drive tyre for 22.5" rims are for both long and regional haul vehicles. High mileage is the main benefit the new tyres offer, along with improved wet braking, better fuel consumption and a greater resistance to damage, when compared to their predecessors
Featuring new construction, compounds and tread designs, the ‘new generation’ truck tyre range is designed specifically to meet the demands of modern European logistics and transport companies. The SP344 and SP444 ranges for 17.5” and 19.5” rims were launched previously and these tyres have proved extremely successful and popular with transport companies across the region. The new SP344 and SP444 22.5” range will replace the SP341 steer axle tyre and SP442 drive axle tyre respectively.
SP344
The Dunlop SP344 is a steer axle tyre. Using the latest technology in its tread compound, 20% improved mileage is a key benefit and it has low rolling resistance, which means better fuel consumption, yet there is no compromise on wet performance. This tyre offers increased vehicle efficiency and less downtime for the operator, also thanks to a more robust carcass.
The tread pattern on the SP344 has five ribs and closed shoulder ribs. This pattern is designed for high mileage while at the same time reduce noise and improve handling. Wet performance is greatly enhanced because of the ‘Flexomatic’ and edge blading. These provide more edges to grip the road and help water dispersal.
Stone penetration protector systems are incorporated into the tread to reduce the risk of punctures and carcass damage. These features, as well as enhancing grip and durability, also help to reduce drive-by noise and ensure that wear is even. The overall result is a tyre that has a 20% more mileage potential than its predecessor.
SP444
The SP444 drive tyres are designed to match the SP344 and provide high mileage as well as improved traction and wet braking. As with the SP344, the latest technology tread compound and construction provides damage resistance, extended mileage and low rolling resistance, resulting in greater fuel economy and efficiency. The SP444 has a wide five rib tread pattern and features a centreline rib. This gives maximum mileage performance and has the benefit of providing even wear and low rolling resistance. Wet performance is significantly enhanced by 3DBIS ‘waffle’ blades. These lock the tread blocks in the footprint for greater grip and open afterwards to provide high volume water clearance. Other features include directional groove tapers and blade locations, to reduce heel-and-toe wear, and new teardrop blade bottoms, which increase resistance to fatigue cracking. The wear pattern is enhanced due to the unique blade positioning and bladed tie bars, which also provide excellent traction and mileage. Stone picking and holding, which helps make these tyres suit today’s demanding service conditions in regional and delivery truck operations, is minimised due to the tread groove shape.
New construction New technology and advanced carcass geometry provide greater durability, better damage resistance, better retreadability, easier mounting, and less weight, which means more payload. The construction includes super tensile steel carcass and belts, which improve crack resistance, due to reducing internal strain and allowing full rubber penetration between the cords.
Innovation backed by service Goodyear Dunlop has the most comprehensive truck and bus tyre supporting infrastructure in the European tyre industry. With its TruckForce service network, ActionLine roadside assistance and FleetOnlineSolutions Internet management system, Goodyear Dunlop provides the broadest dedicated products and service on the market. The TruckForce service network has over 1,100 locations across Europe all equipped with the trained staff and specialist equipment necessary to competently and efficiently undertake any tyre-related task.
●For more information on Dunlop’s truck tyre range, visit www.dunlop-tyres.com
Published: 06/10/2008
