US distributor highlights how advanced farm tires help to meet food demand

Columbus, Ohio – Tire technology will be a decisive factor in tackling the growing global food challenge, said K&M Tire’s national AG sales manager Loudan Hammersmith.

Speaking at the tire distributor's recent dealer conference and trade show in the Ohio state capital, he said recent advances contributed to potentially greater efficiency.

Improved flexion (IF), very high flexion (VF) and cyclical field operation (CFO) tires provided a dual benefit in terms of load capacity and soil health, outlined Hammersmith.

Used at the same inflation pressure, each of these tires could accommodate far greater loads than standard radial tires, he pointed out.

IFs were capable of 20% more load, VFs of 40% and (on speeds up to 10mph) CFOs up to 55%. Alternatively, IF and VFs could carry a matching load at 20% and 40% less tire pressure respectively.

Lowered tire pressure had a further benefit, stressed Hammersmith, increasing footprint for lower soil compaction, plus better root development and water infiltration.

In the US alone, he said, around 300 million acres had been lost over the last 50-100 years, while the number of farmers had also reduced as their population aged.

Current statistics suggested that worldwide, food demand would grow an estimated 60% by 2050, increasing pressure for raised yields and healthy soil, he warned.