Technology offers advantages of tubeless radial tires on tube-type rims

GREENVILLE, S.C. – Since Michelin introduced Tubeless Bead Seal (TBS) technology for material handling and industrial tires five years ago, there has been significant growth in sales of the system across all sizes of the Michelin XZM industrial tire. Use of the TBS system, which consists of a profiled rubber ring that replaces the tube and flap in tube-type rims in tire sizes ranging from eight up to 20 inches in diameter, has grown tremendously.

Michelin recently tracked the use of the TBS system in Michelin XZM™ industrial radials, a popular tire designed for use in forklift trucks, terminal tractors and other heavy-duty industrial applications. "What we’ve found is that our customers have recognized the value that this system brings to their business," said Michael Ford, market segment manager for industrial tires at Michelin. "In some tires, such as the 355/65R15, nearly all of our customers are asking for a TBS system. And use is growing in popularity in smaller sizes down to eight inch tires."

TBS allows forklifts, industrial machines, aircraft and baggage trailer tow tractors, and intermodal tractors and trailers to be fitted for the first time with tubeless radial tires on their tube-type rims. It replaces the tube and flap, and is placed inside the tire between the beads to ensure the existing wheel and tubeless tire assembly are airtight.

"After significant consideration, we decided to try the Michelin XZM radials with the TBS system on all of our forklifts," said Scott Meek, maintenance and production supervisor for Oregon Canadian Forest Products. "Prior to that, we were experiencing at least six flats a week on the 25 forklifts we have operating. It has been a year since our decision, and we have had no tire problems with forklifts equipped with Michelin tires. The savings have been tremendous."

Benefits of using TBS with Michelin XZM radials, when compared to tube-type tires, include:

• Elimination of sudden deflations
• A smooth and stable ride
• Improves resistance to sidewall cuts
• Long tread life
• Helps reduce rolling resistance
• Easier/quicker mounting and dismounting
• Inventory reduction

Michelin is the only tire manufacturer to offer this technology in industrial tires. " Using the TBS system with a Michelin XZM radial, could help our customers save a considerable amount of money,  increase productivity, reduce tire damage and improve performance," says Ford. " Many others are just beginning to see the benefits and cost savings. More and more of our customers are switching to this system each year."

For more information, call the sales support group at 1-877-754-8473.