BKT’s New Combine Tire has Higher Capacity for Less Compaction

BKT has announced the new Agrimax ProHarvest high-performance tire for combines designed to carry higher capacity while reducing soil compaction. 

“Thanks to its innovative design, Agrimax ProHarvest tackles challenges by reducing the pressure exerted on the soil since it has a larger footprint,” said Dilip Vaidya, senior president and director of technology at BKT. “Not only does this preserve soil health, but it also promotes higher and more sustainable farming yields.”

During harvest, a grain tank’s load will vary, and filling and emptying can cause stress on the tires. This leads to wear, or even cuts and punctures from debris on the ground. Soil compaction is another concern for farmers, as heavy machines like a combine can damage soil structure. 

The Agrimax ProHarvest uses Very High Flexion (VF) technology, enabling the tires to carry up to 40% more load than a standard tire at the same inflation pressure, according to BKT. This enables a wider, more even weight distribution on the ground, reducing compaction. The tires are made with a reinforced polyester casing, with three layers of steel belts for higher resistance to deformation, and protection against mechanical stress.

The tire’s compound formulation was developed for cut and chip resistance, as well as damage caused by residual crop stubble. The tread has an open-shoulder design to improve traction on rough and wet terrain. This also enhances self-cleaning by rapidly releasing mud and debris during field and road transfers. 

Cyclic Field Operations (CFO) technology enables the tire to tolerate temporary overloads when the combine’s tank reaches maximum fill, and then return to standard operating conditions once the tank is emptied. 

For more information about the Agrimax ProHarvest, visit bkt-tires.com.