Efficiency, comfort and diverse needs – Wheel loader tires face increasing demands

The use of wheel loaders has become more versatile and they are beginning to appear not only in contracting, but also in agriculture, where the wheel loader is increasingly being used alongside the tractor. Tractors have long been equipped with front loaders, but many professionals now prefer wheel loaders for their efficiency and precise handling. 

 

As farming and contracting become more professional, it is often possible to purchase specialized machinery. For example, as farms have grown in size and and the requirements for machinery have diversified, it has become necessary to purchase wheel loaders. 

Versatile use has also led to the realization that tires must meet a wide range of needs. Often the first question when buying tires is how many hours they will last. But when you need to get things done, efficiency becomes a much more important parameter. 

Next, we will have a look at some characteristics that are at the heart of tire efficiency. 

 

What are the qualities that make wheel loader tires efficient? 

In a multi-purpose application, it is important that the tire can do the job in the toughest conditions, but a big advantage is when it can do the job more efficiently. This is where traction, self-cleaning and stability come into play. 

 

Traction 

In soft mud where manure and clay are present, traction is especially useful. If the tire slips badly, the job can take much longer than with an efficient tire.  

If the same job can be done in two hours instead of five, that is obviously a lot of time saved, which also means that the machines are running for less time, which reduces the fuel consumption. Increased productivity enables you to do more with the same effort. 

 

Large contact and self-cleaning 

Self-cleaning is important for efficiency. When a tire cleans itself with every rotation, you get full contact and grip at all times. 

A large contact area also increases traction and is gentler on the ground. The less erosion or marks you leave where you drive, the better. Minimum soil disturbance is crucial while working on field and farm yards. 

 

Stability 

A stable tire makes for a more comfortable ride. And when you're driving a lot, even from one place to another, comfort is important. The quieter and less vibrating the machine is, the longer you can work with it. 

 

Ground King Loader – best of both worlds with Hybrilug technology 

Nokian Tyres Ground King Loader is a tire that meets all current machine requirements. It is a new and versatile wheel loader tire that combines the best features of lug and block patterns with Hybrilug technology.  

Hybrid pattern provides traction, multi-directional grip and continuous contact to get the job done on a variety of terrains. Contractors are able to work both on roads and in more challenging muddy or soft terrain.  

The Hybrilug blocks provide stability, even wear and smooth driving. Strong radial carcass is essential for comfort. If there are seams or bumps in the road, this type of tire will absorb them. This gives you fast, comfortable ride on road transits. 

In summary, tire performance is determined by grip, continuous contact and tire stability, from soft mud to hard surfaces. 

On soft soil Nokian Tyres Ground King Loader has 

• excellent self-cleaning properties 

• stability, comfort and wide contact area 

• maximized grip with traction boosters 

 

On hard ground this new tire has 

• impressive load-bearing capacity 

• smooth ride on various terrains 

• excellent mileage compared to traditional lug pattern tires 

 

Drop-in replacement, tested worldwide 

Wheel loaders that use 20.5R25 EM tires also have wheels that match the tire size. Nokian Ground King Loader is now available in this same 20.5R25 size that makes it a drop-in replacement for many wheel loaders. This allows as many users as possible to expand their loader capabilities. 

The tire has already been praised in tests around the world, in the Nordic countries, Europe and North America. According to the testers, the tire makes everyday life easier and helps you get more out of your working hours. 

 

 

Writer 

 

Kimmo Kekki 

Product Manager 

 

 

Questions about wheel loader tires?  

Read more: Loader tires