A new version of Trelleborg’s long-established TM800 traction tyre has been unveiled.

It features a semi-hybrid tread pattern and a carcass construction that enables it to meet “VF” category performance standards.

Currently available in two sizes – 650/65 R38 and 540/65 R28 – with more to follow, the TM800 PowerFlex is designed for tractors that take on a fair amount of road travel in addition to high draft field work.

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It has lugs with a segregated inner block that places more rubber down the centre line of the tread, which aims to give the tyre reassuring stability and steering precision on the road, as well as less noise and vibration, than a tyre dedicated to field operations.

And it’s also claimed to maintain better traction in the field than tyres with a “hybrid” tread pattern that prioritises road work.

The main section of the lug features Trelleborg’s ProgressiveTraction concept, which means it has a thicker lower section to root it firmly to the carcass, and a ledge between the lower and upper zones that increases the surface area of the leading face.

This design has been shown to deliver greater traction than the usual curved-face lug on field surfaces where the tyre can get maximum “bite”.

Higher slow-speed load capacity

The new tyre also has what Trelleborg calls VF-PFO technology, previously introduced in 15 sizes on the larger TM1000 ProgressiveTraction design.

This effectively permits higher than usual load capacity when the tyre is operating at very low speeds in the field.

I’s similar to the CFO (cyclic field operation) allowance for harvester tyres that experience only a brief period supporting the machine’s maximum weight.

For the TM800 PowerFlex, the VF-PFO combination allows up to 17% more load capacity at 10kph than a standard tyre of equivalent size.

In comparisons with one from a “premium competitor”, the newcomer is reckoned to have delivered 20% more traction, partly from a 5% wider footprint, as well as 5% better self-cleaning ability, 6% lower rolling resistance and up to 20% longer service life.

In addition to the two sizes already available, Trelleborg plans to introduce VF 480/65 R28 PFO, VF 600/65 R28 PFO, VF 600/65R38 PFO and VF 710/70 R38 PFO sizes.