BKT’s new harvester tyre features a higher load capacity, less soil compaction, a durable compound, and road comfort. Designed for ever-more-productive and sustainable farming.
BKT presents AGRIMAX PROHARVEST VF: The New High-Performance Tyre for Combine Harvesters
Modern agriculture increasingly focuses on optimising yields and preserving soil health. So, the harvesting season is one of the most critical moments in a farmer’s calendar. Heavy equipment, such as combines, performs its job under difficult operating conditions, and tyres are subject to continuous stress. This presents a twofold challenge. On the one hand, it ensures operational efficiency while protecting the soil from damage caused by compaction.
Against this backdrop, BKT has recently developed a new harvester tyre that combines high performance, reliability, and eco-friendliness to tackle the challenges associated with harvesting needs.
During harvesting, load variations due to grain tank filling and emptying can cause considerable stress on the tyres, leading to accelerated wear. At worst, damage such as cuts or punctures can occur due to residue or debris on the ground. Soil compaction concerns farmers, as heavy machinery can damage soil structure and ultimately reduce crop yields.
BKT designed AGRIMAX PROHARVEST with advanced technical solutions to ensure maximum efficiency and reliability. Using the VF (Very High Flexion) technology, the tyre can carry up to 40% more load than a standard tyre at the same inflation pressure. Thus enabling a wider and more even weight distribution on the ground. BKT reports that this reduces the risk of compaction and promotes soil conservation, which is key to maintaining fertility and agricultural productivity.
AGRIMAX PROHARVEST features a reinforced polyester casing combined with three steel belt layers that ensure greater deformation resistance and protection against mechanical stress. This casing extends a tyre’s service life even under high and cyclic loads.
Compound Formulation Focus
BKT has brought specific attention to the compound formulation. This was developed to provide high cut and chip resistance and protect against damage caused by residual stubble or other abrasive materials on the ground. In turn, it minimises the risk of punctures and reduces maintenance costs.
AGRIMAX PROHARVEST’s tread features an open-shoulder design that improves traction on rough and wet terrain while enhancing self-cleaning properties. The rapid release of mud and debris is ensured during field and road transfers, contributing to high levels of safety and performance during operations.
BKT says that AGRIMAX PROHARVEST has excellent road handling, ensuring even wear, better steering control, and driving comfort. These elements make road transfers safer and less tiring for the operator, increasing overall machinery productivity.
CFO technology (Cyclic Field Operations) adds another layer of value. It enables the tyre to tolerate temporary overloads beyond its capacity, such as when the combine harvester’s tank reaches maximum fill. Once the load is reduced, the tyre returns to standard operating conditions, preventing structural damage and ensuring a longer product lifecycle.
Commitment to Sustainability
Through AGRIMAX PROHARVEST, BKT claims to be reaffirming its commitment to sustainability.
“Thanks to its innovative design, AGRIMAX PROHARVEST tackles these challenges by reducing the pressure exerted on the soil since it has a larger footprint. Not only does this preserve soil health, but it also promotes higher and more sustainable farming yields,” says Dilip Vaidya, Senior President and director of Technology at BKT.
In addition, the tyre’s longer service life, made possible by targeted design choices such as the durable compound and the reinforced structure. This helps reduce the overall environmental impact by limiting the need for frequent replacements. Plus, it decreases the quantity of materials and resources required for manufacturing and product life-cycle management.
BKT has brought AGRIMAX PROHARVEST to market as a technologically advanced and cost-effective solution for all farming industry operators.
