Bridgestone has launched its Underground VMMS, Underground VMDL and Firestone SRG DT LD 2 tires for construction and large vehicles. The tires offer performance in rugged outdoor work areas.
Underground VMMS and VMDL Tires
The Bridgestone V-Steel Mining Smooth Tread (VMMS) and V-Steel Mining D-Lug (VMDL) feature technology features for the underground hard rock segment. The two new radial tires are designed for load haul dump (LHD) loaders, offering underground vehicles durable options that can withstand harsh environments. For additional flexibility, each tire is manufactured with a heavy-duty tread pattern to support the different terrains of underground mining. The VMMS is encased with a smooth pattern and the VMDL has a lug pattern.
Bridgestone
- Two-Star Technology, 3-Star Capacity: The VMMS and VMDL are engineered for LHD loaders that require the load capacity of a 3-star rating, while maintaining air pressure capabilities from a 2-star rating. Bridgestone subterranean products have a strengthened bead structure, enabling 15% more load capacity and an 8% larger footprint for underground vehicles1.
- Extended Wear Life: New specialized compounds within the tread of both tires help deliver 10% longer wear life and higher heat resistance2.
- Durability: The VMMS tire features a vertical sidewall shape and wider outer belt, leading to a 24% increase in cut resistance compared to the previous model3.
In addition to design, the new VMMS and VMDL can be supported by Bridgestone’s tire management systems. The VMMS is available in sizes 26.5R25, 29.5R29 and 35/65R33 and the VMDL is available in 26.5R25 and 29.5R29.
Firestone SRG DT LD 2 Tire
In addition to the VMMS and VMDL, Bridgestone has launched the Firestone Super Rock Grip Deep Tread Loader Dozer 2 (SRG DT LD 2), one of the company’s largest tire products, for the surface mining segment. The SRG DT LD 2 is designed for loader applications. The tire is manufactured at the company’s Bloomington, Illinois tire plant in two sizes, 58/85-57 and 70/70-57 and is approved for Komatsu and Caterpillar loaders. The new tire is designed with several features catering to load performance, including:
- Long Tire Life: The SRG DT LD 2 features a heavy-duty non-directional tread design, providing a 31% increase in tire life over its previous model.
- Durability: In addition to the non-directional tread design, the SRG DT LD 2 is manufactured with a new casing construction to improve cut resistance4 and provide stability.
- Reduced Tramming Time: Engineered with new compounds and construction, the tire has improved heat resistance for 90% better tramming time5.
1 Compared load capacity on the 2024 Bridgestone Databook (p.49) at 94 PSI / 650 kPa from Bridgestone VSMS 26.5R25 40,800 lbs. (18,500 kgs) vs. the Bridgestone VMMS 26.5R25 46,700 lbs. (21,200 kgs). Results may vary. The same comparison applies to 26.5R29 (page 51) and 35/65R33 (page 53) sizes.
2 Wear performance values are based on a comparison of Bridgestone VSMS D2A 35/65R33 vs. Bridgestone VMMS L2A 35/65R33 from field data. Actual measurements may vary depending on size, patterns, specific usage and surface conditions.
3 Cut resistance data based on a comparison of Bridgestone VSMS vs. VMMS of the same size during internal testing. Results may vary depending on the usage, load and surface conditions.
4 Performance comparison based on Firestone 70/70-57 SRG DT LD (previous specification) vs. Firestone 70/70 SRG DT LD2 at major iron mine in Brazil on # hours operating on average. Actual results may vary by site.
5 Data based on tech bulletin BATO-OTR-TB-006-240409. Released on April 2024, data captured by ATC on Firestone 70/70-57 SRG DT LD 2 loader running at 7.5MPH for 40 minutes then 2MPH for 290 Minutes, vs previous Firestone 70/70-57 generation running 5 Miles maximum per day Technical bulletin BATO-OTR-TB-002-160719.
