New Michelin crane tyre

Mobile crane operators in the UK can now make use of a new Michelin tyre that offers an F speed rating of 50mph (80kph), in place of the previous E rating of 43mph (69kph).

The change follows technical approval from the European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation (ETRTO) under recommendation to the UK Department for Transport, which has granted authorisation for F-rated tyres with the same load/speed chart used for tyres with an E speed index. It also states that for speeds below 40mph (64 kph), a formal tyre manufacturer agreement is required.

The F rated Michelin X-Crane tyres were launched in response to requests from crane manufacturers, said the company, for a tyre which could meet the high performance of the latest generation cranes, which are capable of speeds in excess of 50mph (80kph). Furthermore, legislation announced at the end of 2004 governing the use of mobile cranes on a public highway changed, with a series of new weight and speed restrictions being introduced, added Michelin, added Michelin.

"Although the new legislation allows speeds of up to 40mph (64kph) for category C cranes and permits axle weights of up to 16,500 kg, the tyres are not necessarily capable of operating at the highest load/speed rating," said Darren Lindsey, head of Michelin earthmover and industrial tyres.

"The new ‘F' rated Michelin X-Crane tyres solved this issue in mainland Europe, but the legislation had serious implications for UK operators, which fall under STGO regulations, as it restricted their load carrying capacity. This approval from the ETRTO has overcome this issue, and ensures that operators in the UK can enjoy the same benefits from the ‘F' rated X-Crane tyre as their counterparts on the continent."