Bridgestone Bandag Tire Solutions Introduces New Tread for LTL FleetsFights tread chunking for outstanding mileage on single-axle tractors
MUSCATINE, Iowa (Feb. 8, 2010) - Bridgestone Bandag Tire Solutions (BBTS), a division of Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, is introducing the new Bandag brand BDR-HT3 tread especially for LTL fleet customers operating single-axle tractors. Used in the drive axle position, the new BDR-HT3 incorporates an innovative tread compound and tread pattern that resists tears and delivers outstanding mileage and exceptional wear.
The tire was introduced Saturday, Feb. 6, at the Bridgestone Bandag Executive Symposium, a new annual meeting for Bridgestone and Firestone new tire dealers, and Bandag retread tire dealers. The meeting runs through Monday, February 8, in Marco Island, Florida.
“Bandag BDR-HT3 is a problem-solver for our fleet customers,” said Chris Hoffman, Manager, TBR & Retread Product Marketing, BBTS. “In the most severe cases, fleets that operate single-axle tractors have experienced tread lug chunking resulting from the high torque of single-axle tractors. Stress to the tread elements is further aggravated when applications require hauling up and down steep grades.”
Continued Hoffman, “To fight tread chunking and promote outstanding mileage, three major strategies were used in creating the BDR-HT3: a new break through tread compound, new tread design features and splice optimization.”
The bow tie-shaped tread block distributes torque forces evenly for reduced block stress, while the wider, buttressed shape design strengthens the block, helping it stand up to heavy torque and braking. Tie bars link tread blocks to neighboring blocks, reducing the effects of tearing and cracking. An interlocking tread design and slightly angled block edges combat heel and toe wear.
The BDR-HT3 is built using the latest Bandag Model 5400® Builder, an innovative machine that produces closely matched lug elements, reducing stress at the splice junction and providing a more seamless appearance.
In addition to features that combat tread chunking, the BDR-HT3 has an aggressive true open shoulder and a stable 28/32˝ tread design for exceptional traction and long wear.
For more information on the BDR-HT3 tread, contact your Bandag dealer or BBTS sales representative or visit www.bandag.com.
About Bridgestone Bandag Tire Solutions:
Bridgestone Bandag Tire Solutions (BBTS), a division of Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC, manufactures, markets and sells medium and heavy duty truck tires for the original equipment and replacement markets in the United States and in Canada through Bridgestone Firestone Canada Inc. Bridgestone, Firestone and Dayton brand truck tires are available through more than 2,500 dealers and truck stops across the U.S. and Canada. Around the world, top truck fleets and original equipment manufacturers rely on Bridgestone and Firestone brand tires for long tread life and low cost per mile. In addition, through its Bandag brand, Bandag retreading dealers have access to industry-leading research and development, manufacturing, marketing and sales expertise. This combination of new and retread product offerings provides trucking customers with total tire solutions.