Tire Technology 032022

MARCH 2022
ALSO INSIDE
SPECIAL REPORT: Sustainability
Machine vision and inspection
Tire building machine advances
Vredestein launches in India
MINE OF
I N F O R M AT I O N
Continental experts reveal the advanced
materials and technologies keeping
mining vehicles on the move
TIRE
TECHNOLOGY
EXPO 2022
Exclusive speaker
interviews | New
technology previews
| Conference program
details | Short course
highlights
P.60
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I N T H I S I S S U E
WHAT’S NEW 30 Mining tire development COLUMNS

As the mining industry pursues productivity
4 Goodyear at Dakar and reliability gains, Reinhard Klant, 16 Joe Walter
Standard-spec Offroad tires propel the earthmoving product line manager for TTi’s technical
Kamaz-master truck teams to rally Continental Commercial Specialty Tires, consultant asks if
success in the famed, extreme race explains the latest advances increasingly complex
modeling could be
6 Kenda Klever M/T2 36 Machine vision
6 to the detriment of
The tire maker’s American Technology Developments in tire machine inspection engineers’ expertise
Center has redesigned its mud terrain and vision technologies help to evolve
line for further offroad racing success
production accuracy. The latest advances
8 Pirelli Scorpion revamp in monitoring technology can sharpen the
The established tire family gets an quality control process still further
overhaul for premium SUV applications,
with over 400 OE fitments targeted 56 All-terrain tire development
10 OE fitment roundup 30 Nokian Tyres aims to build on the success of
Exploring the details of the latest original its Hakkapeliitta line, and is now targeting
equipment contracts that are set to roll new market segments with the launch of its 18 Gregory Smith
off international vehicle production lines latest all-terrain tire family – the aggressive Could variable slip
12 Production update Outpost AT and road-focused Outpost APT testing offer an
The latest news in global tire production, improvement over
including hydrogen power for SRI, and a 60 TIRE TECHNOLOGY EXPO RETURNS common testing
proposed tire recycling plant in Greece Discover new technologies, innovations methods, saving time,
82 money and resources?
14 Sustainability goals and business partners at the 2022 Tire
TTi speaks to SRI about its latest Technology Expo in Hannover, Germany,
advances as the tire maker aims to on May 18, 19 and 20. Network with and
produce a 100% sustainable tire by 2050 source from the best at the industry’s
leading live exhibition and conference
FEATURES
82 Vredestein in India
22 Tire building machines As the premium brand launches in India,
Evolutions and technological TTi speaks to Vredestein CTO Daniele
advances in production machinery Lorenzetti about the challenges and
have enabled digitalization opportunities of the new market, and
and more efficient workflows, moving production to Indian factories
enhanced accuracy and improved 88 Extreme E tires
sustainability, but what lies ahead? Rachel Evans talks to Continental about
plans for Season 2 of the all-electric racing
series, and why the tire maker has selected
45 SPECIAL REPORT
raw materials that ensure the race tires are
as green as the vehicles they carry
Sustainability
TTi examines the latest developments 104 Tire Technology Expo
from tire manufacturers, policymakers Flavio Farroni, 2015 winner of the TTi Young
and other innovators as the industry Scientist Prize, recounts his journey from
seeks to up its environmental game PhD student to exhibitor at this year’s expo
46 52 54
Industry Zeppelin Momentive
efforts Systems Performance Materials
What steps are being taken to ensure Guido Veit explains how the company Luc ter Bogt reveals how sustainability
that stakeholders across the tire is contributing to a circular economy, has become a core business and
business are working in concert to reducing its environmental impact development driver for the supplier
increase sustainability? through specialist recycling practices of advanced silanes
March 2022 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com 1

I N T H I S I S S U E
EDITOR’S
PRODUCTS
& SERVICES NOTE
At various points in the last two years, I’m sure we’ve all
94 Turret technology on suffered from a sense of déjà vu – with the new ‘normal’
tire production lines we were all forced to contend with, our previously held
Mondon patterns and routines went out the window, replaced
96 Production machinery with new (often hastily adopted) ways of working.
ready for Industry 4.0 For me, the process of putting magazines out became
Spoolex a key indicator that time was, in fact, still passing – or
98 Tire-wheel assembly rather, proof that I wasn’t living in a timeless, home-office
inspection technology bubble, untethered to the rest of the world. I could tell
Eurofit that the days and weeks were still marching forward
because we had either recently finished, or were soon
100 Intermeshing mixers for
to print, another magazine.
sustainable tire production
So I had a bit of a double-take moment a week or so
Kobelco
ago, as we did a run-through of the content included “Could there
102 Innovations and services in this issue. Two years ago, we met the experts at
The latest developments from ever be such
Continental and asked them about the development
leading industry suppliers a thing as too
of the tires for the (then) soon-to-launch Extreme E
much emphasis on
series. One year ago, we did a deep dive into efforts
to drag the tire industry toward more sustainable
sustainability?
operating procedures along its material supply chain. Personally, I don’t
And as you’ll notice, we’re revisiting both of these in think so”
this issue. Not, as I had initially panicked, because I was
stuck in some kind of time loop that flitted between
March 2020, 2021 and 2022, but because there’s a lot
MARCH 2022
ALSO INSIDE
SPECIAL REPORT: Sustainability to be learned by revisiting, reassessing and reexploring.
Machine vision and inspection
Tire building machine advances
Vredestein launches in India It’s rare that we would (deliberately) revisit topics like
these so soon – after all, a surprisingly big part of my
job is simply keeping track of what we’ve covered and
when, and trying to avoid repeating ourselves – but,
MINE OF on occasion, some subjects deserve to be examined
I N F O R M AT I O N
Continental experts reveal the advanced frequently and thoroughly.
Cover image: Continental
materials and technologies keeping
With regard to sustainability, in particular, could

mining vehicles on the move
there ever be such a thing as too much emphasis on

TIRE
TECHNOLOGY
EXPO 2022
Exclusive speaker
interviews | New
efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the tire

technology previews
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details | Short course
highlights
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industry? Personally, I don’t think so. So this probably

www.tiretechnologyinternational.com
Contributors this issue: won’t be the last time you’ll read about it in TTi either.
Rachel Evans, Richard Gooding, And, I hope, it certainly won’t be the last time we talk
Graham Heeps, Marc Noordeloos, to the brilliant minds behind the myriad breakthroughs
Sam Petters, Gregory Smith, being made to that end. Enjoy the issue.
Mark Smyth, Christine Velarde Matt Ross, editor-in-chief
Editor-in-chief: Matt Ross Publication director: Colin Scott Tire Technology International, Tire Technology International is published quarterly together with an
Assistant editor: Callum Brook-Jones Publication manager: Olivia Campbell Abinger House, Church Street, Annual Review. ISSN 1462-4729 (Print). ISSN 2397-6373 (Online).
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Technical consultant: Joe Walter Lauren Floyd e: [email protected]
Production manager: Catia Rocha w: www.ukimediaevents.com The views expressed in the articles and technical papers are those of
the authors and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. While
Published by:
Production editor: Alex Bradley
every care has been taken during production, the publisher does not
UKi Media & Events, Sub editors: Sarah Lee, Alasdair CEO: Tony Robinson accept any liability for errors that may have occurred.
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2 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

B I G P I C T U R E
GOODYEAR
2022 Dakar Rally
Arabian Desert, Saudi Arabia
Team 501 – consisting of Anton Shibalov,
Dmitrii Nikitin and Ivan Tatarinov –
launches its Kamaz-43509 truck through
the sand dunes of the Arabian Desert
during the 2022 Dakar Rally.
For the duration of the two-week
race, the Kamaz-master trucks – equipped
with standard-specification Goodyear
Offroad tires – dominated the event,
with all 13 stages being won by one of
the company’s entrants. Designed for
low heat generation at high speeds, the
tires provided the teams with the crucial
durability, cut resistance and traction
needed for a successful race.
Having navigated across approximately
8,000km of grueling terrain, the Kamaz-
master trucks took the top four positions,
marking the second time the brand has
achieved a podium lockout at the rally.

B I G P I C T U R E

W H AT ’ S N E W
In brief
Bridgestone opens wet
handling track in Italy
Following an investment of nearly
€3m (US$3.38m), a new wet handling track
has opened at the manufacturer’s European
proving ground near to Rome. The latest site
addition will enable Bridgestone to optimize
the wet performance of its tires.
Pirelli P Zero tires for

latest Alfa Romeo SUV
All models of the new Alfa Romeo Tonale
including the EV and hybrid options are to
be equipped with Pirelli P Zero tires. Fitted
in a size 235/40R20 96V XL, the tires have
been designed to emphasize the vehicle’s
characteristics and to deliver safety and
performance in wet and dry conditions.
Goodyear chosen as ERA

Championship tire supplier
The American manufacturer will supply
specially developed EV-ready slick and
wet specification tires to all teams within
the Electric Racing Academy series which
is set to launch in summer 2022.

W H AT ’ S N E W
KENDA
KLEVER M/T2
The tire maker redesigns its mud-terrain tire
with further off-road racing success in mind
by GRAHAM HEEPS
T
he latest product to naturally flow out through the grooves Left and right: KATC’s
emerge from Kenda’s or get released through the pattern. An in-house noise analysis
tools were put to work
American Technology aggressive sidewall tread helps bite up on the M/T2 , building
Center (KATC) is a and out of ruts, clinging to rock surfaces, on the sequences and
second-generation and is reinforced to guard against cuts, noise studies previously
completed for the R/T
mud-terrain tire, tears and abrasion.
Below left: Kenda’s
dubbed Klever M/T2 KR629. It follows M/T2 is built in the same
the renewal of other Klever off-road RED LETTER DAY factory near Ho Chi
products in recent years, including the A first for Kenda is the raised red Minh City, Vietnam, as
the R/T and A/T tires
A/T2 KR628 and the R/T ‘tweener’ tire. sidewall lettering that will be offered
Kenda expects the newcomer to on some of the 35in and 37in sizes.
be used away from paved roads up The manufacturing process is similar
to 80% of the time, primarily by light to the white lettering used by other
trucks and Jeeps, so the focus of the brands, but the company took extra
new design was off-road traction, time to vet the materials involved.
especially in mud. Al Henderson, One long-term test involved leaving
automotive team leader at KATC, a tire on the roof at KATC for four
hopes the M/T2 will build on the R/T’s years, checking it monthly to monitor
success for Kenda in Championship any fading to an off-brand pink. MUD, GLORIOUS MUD
Off-Road racing, as part of the “We’ve brought all the materials The two-year KR629 development
company’s Podium2Pavement mantra. [involved] into our tech center program kicked off with extensive
“With the M/T2 we’ve utilized and tested them for aging,” says benchmarking of competitor tires,
components [from the R/T] that we Henderson. “We’ve used an ozone including analysis of footprint,
know work well: a three-ply sidewall, tester to look at each component mudflow and noise. Henderson won’t
two strong steel belts and two nylon that goes into the red compound, name individual products, but Kenda
cap-plies,” he says. “We have a rugged to make sure it’s not predisposed is aiming to match the performance of
bead protection bar to keep the wheels to color distortion over time. White Tier 1 and Tier 2 tires from the likes of
from chafing or getting scratched when [material] is the base for the red letter BFGoodrich, General, Maxxis, Nitto and
you’re off-road, and a strong bead area but sometimes that white will fade Toyo, with a more affordable product.
to keep the sidewalls stiff. to a yellowish color from the ozone. With the M/T2 expected to hit the
“A lot of the new technology going We’ve put better materials in there market in 30 LT sizes in the summer
into this [M/T2] mud tire comes from to keep it whiter longer, which helps of 2022, final testing of prototype tires
the new tread compound and from the red to stay red.” was underway at the time of writing.
some of the new design elements For on- and off-road work, KATC
that optimize the tread pattern for uses the TRC proving ground, just
different mudflow.” two hours from its Ohio base, as
The all-natural-rubber, all-season well as a site in Texas in the winter.
compound has undergone extensive Henderson says the new tire came
chip-chunk testing off-road. The tread off better than one of the Silverado
pattern features an interlocking A-B 2500 test trucks during punishing
Photo: Graham Heeps
pitch design. Henderson explains that runs through 1m of mud in the summer
the different pitch types contribute of 2021. It has also undergone mud
to a quieter tire by adding variability spin-up traction testing at a facility
into the noise response. The voids in Nevada, to correlate Kenda’s digital
are optimized so that the mud will mudflow analysis. 

W H AT ’ S N E W
with best-possible performance

and safety (shorter braking distances,
higher grip, better vehicle stability
and decreased risk of aquaplaning).
It utilized Pirelli’s latest technology
developments in new materials and
cutting-edge modeling.
As a result, Pirelli is heralding
the new Scorpion range as offering
greater efficiency (lower fuel or battery
consumption), reduced noise and a
longer lifespan in comparison with
the previous generation.
The structure of the tire has
been reinforced to cope with the
dynamics and weight of SUVs during
emergency maneuvers – such as
sudden direction changes or braking.
The new Scorpion is also designed to
handle significant loads through the
tires, ensuring the correct distribution
of pressure throughout the footprint
NEW SCORPION
to enable a balanced and controllable
dynamic response.
The compound of the new Scorpion
RANGE UNVEILED
contains new-generation synthetic
rubber capable of providing a blend
of characteristics: low rolling resistance,
braking performance in the wet and
Pirelli targets more than 400 OE fitment homologations for the new uniform tread wear throughout the
Scorpion range, with more than 50% of these for electric vehicles life of the product. It originates from
the technical know-how already
P
applied to the new Cinturato P7,
irelli has updated its Above: The updated adaptations and application of the although the Scorpion is stiffened
Scorpion tire range for Scorpion range is latest Pirelli technologies. to cope with the particular demands
aimed at premium
SUV applications. This SUV applications, and The new Scorpion range features of SUVs. The compound is enriched
complete renewal of includes a summer, all- several optional extras, including with silica, specific resins that increase
the range is focused on season and winter tire Pirelli’s Noise Cancelling System, grip and bespoke polymers (elastomeric
premium vehicle fitments Run Flat and Seal Inside technologies. materials that improve the interaction
and features a range of dedicated tire The upgraded range comprises with the silica itself). These polymeric
variants to suit different seasons. Given the summer Scorpion, the Scorpion materials can alter themselves
the increased weight, higher center All Season SF2 and the new Scorpion depending on operating temperatures.
of gravity and distinctive dynamics Winter 2. Development included an As a result, this new compound has
of modern SUV designs, Pirelli’s R&D ‘eco-safety’ design approach, which what Pirelli describes as ‘mechanical
teams opted to utilize many of the aims to combine low environmental intelligence’, and is capable of varying
innovations recently introduced in the impact (decreased rolling resistance, its behavior according to driving
new Cinturato tire – albeit with specific reduced road noise and high mileage) conditions and temperatures. 
Hankook remains exclusive Bridgestone launches New airport tire for

partner of W Series joint R&D program ground handling vehicles
The female-only single-seater series The collaboration between the Continental has unveiled an
will continue to race on Ventus Race National Institute of Advanced all-season tire designed for ground
tires on eight Formula 1 weekends Industrial Science and Technology, operation fleets in airports. The
In brief throughout 2022. The partnership

between Hankook and the series
is now in its third year.
Tohoku University, Eneos and JGC
will develop chemical recycling
processes for used tires.
ContiRV20 is suited for smaller tow
tractors and baggage loaders, and
is rated for mud and snow.

W H AT ’ S N E W | O E F I T M E N T
YOKOHAMA
Brabus
Advan Sport V107

Size: 305/35R23 111Y XL
Vehicle: 700, 800, 900
Notes: Yokohama’s flagship tire
has been selected for the Brabus
off-roader, which is based on the
Mercedes-AMG G 63. The fitment
is the latest collaboration between
the two companies since the start
of their technical partnership in 2005.
Our roundup of the latest offerings from leading OE manufacturers
CONTINENTAL
John Deere
TractorMaster/Tractor85
Size: Up to 2.05m external diameter
and 50in rim diameter
Vehicle: 7R, 8R
Notes: Conti will supply John Deere’s
factory in Waterloo, Iowa, with tires for
fitment on large tractors for the global
market. Specialist lug technology means
the lug surface is larger than standard tires,
and a high lug overlap reduces vibration.
APOLLO
Liebherr
Vredestein Endurion/
Flotation Trac
Size: 340/80R18 IND 143 A8/B,
400/70R18 IND 147 A8/B, 400/70R20
IND 149 A8/B (Endurion); 560/45R22.5
IMP 160D (Flotation Trac)
Vehicle: L504, L506, L508 and L509 Tele
Notes: Apollo will supply Vredestein tires
for a range of Liebherr loaders. Endurion
tires are suited to compact wheel loaders
using hard surfaces, and the Flotation
Trac tire (pictured) is homologated for
the L509 telescopic wheel loader.

Transport Carbon Delivery
Warehousing Black of Yaroslavl
Logistics Procurement Carbon Black
Full Growing
Coverage U.S.
of EU Operations
MAKROchem. 25 years of service

www.makrochem.com
W H AT ’ S N E W
SRI USING HYDROGEN IN MAXAM INTRODUCES PATENTED

COMPOUND TECHNOLOGY TO NEW
MANUFACTURING FACILITY
MANUFACTURING PROCESS
Maxam Tire has integrated a new proprietary
compound into its production facility in Vietnam.
The new EcoPoint3 compound is used in the
manufacture of solid tires at the company’s
Clean gas used to increase the sustainability of production in Japan heavily automated factory. The move will enhance
the performance of material handling products,
of untapped potential,” says Dr while the factory will also increase its existing
production volume, efficiency and consistency of
Bernd Löwenhaupt, managing
quality thanks to advanced automation practices.
director at Sumitomo Rubber
“After several years of R&D of high-performance
Europe. “Ultimately, using hydrogen
rubber materials, the eco-visco-elastomer-
boilers is worthwhile as part of our composite EcoPoint3 compound elevates
manufacturing process because it the organization to a new level of global
allows us to produce tires without competitiveness,” says Troy Kline, president of
any CO2 emissions.” Maxam Tire North America. Compared with carbon
To further increase company black compounds and conventional dry-mixed
sustainability efforts, the hydrogen silica compounds, the EcoPoint3 process provides
needed for production comes from superior distribution of ingredients during mixing.
another SRI facility, and if the trial is “This new factory was a critical addition to
successful the manufacturer plans to increase production efficiency and quality,” says
use the technology globally from 2023. Jimmy McDonnell, VP of sales and marketing for
“The use of hydrogen boilers is Maxam Tire North America. “The improvement in
a major step in the right direction for production efficiency and EcoPoint3 technological
T
us, which we hope will revolutionize advancement is our commitment to be the trusted
he use of hydrogen Above: SRI’s Shirakawa the way we produce our tires in the business solutions provider our customers
facility has integrated deserve, proving our factories are there for them.”
is being trialled at one hydrogen into its tire
coming years,” explains Löwenhaupt.
of SRI’s manufacturing “There are challenges though. For Maxam’s new plant will enable the tire maker
building procedures
to have more products to meet growing demand.
plants in central Japan instance, we need to control the level
All solid tire production has been relocated to
through a pilot project of nitrogen oxide emissions produced
the new facility, with future capacity and product
supported by the New from using a hydrogen boiler.
offering expansions under consideration.
Energy and Industrial Technology “We are also working to produce
Development Organization. hydrogen with electric power that
Instead of using high-temperature is generated from other renewable
energy (steam), the Shirakawa plant is energy sources. These are significant
using hydrogen for zero CO2 emission hurdles to overcome, but we remain
production within the company’s confident that we can produce tires on
NEO-T01 tire manufacturing system. a 24/7 basis with hydrogen boilers, and
The trial will run until February 2024. are focused on finding a way to use it
“We believe that hydrogen is a as an environmentally friendly process
source of energy with a huge amount that replaces conventional energy.” 
GREEK PYROLYSIS PLANT PROGRESS

Plans continue to develop a recycling facility to turn end-of-life tires into recovered carbon black and fuel oil
I
ndustrial solutions company and the corresponding environmental
Klean Industries and its partner license awarded by the Greek
Pyrolysis Hellas (PHS) have authorities. PHS proposes to build the
completed the second phase pyrolysis plant near Skala, Cephalonia.
of a feasibility study to design It will be located at an existing
and build a tire pyrolysis plant industrial site, owned by PHS co-owner
in Greece. The tire recycling facility will KEHR. The operators plan for the site
encompass a state-of-the-art scrap tire to be expanded with a new process
pyrolysis plant to recycle 20,000 TPA building to house the tire pyrolysis
of waste tires into valuable chemical plant, which will create recovered
products. The PHS environmental carbon black and recovered fuel oil
impact study for plant construction through a proprietary carbonization
and operation has been approved process owned by Klean Industries. 

SUSTAINABLE
IN NATURE &
PERFORMANCE
Sustainability & performance with NXT Silane

TM
Momentive’s advanced tire silanes Minimize the tire footprint during its
use phase and at the same time
reducing energy use, waste, rework
At Momentive, we pride ourselves on creating
and ethanol emission during tire
solutions for a sustainable world. production.
Our commitment is to be part of the solution

to sustainable mobility. NXT Z 45 Silane
TM
Will you partner with us? Maximize tire performance while

minimizing the emissions of CO2
and tire wear particles.
Momentive and the Momentive logo are trademarks of Momentive Performance Materials Inc.
Before purchasing or using any Momentive products, please visit www.momentive.com/salesdisclaimer to view our full product and sales disclaimer.
The use of the “TM” symbol designates registered or unregistered trademarks of Momentive Performance Materials Inc. or its affiliated companies.
Copyright 2022 Momentive Performance Materials Inc.
W H AT ’ S N E W
SRI LAUNCHES INITIATIVE TO

INVESTIGATE ALL TIRE ELEMENTS
Through advanced R&D processes, SRI will increase the amount of renewable material in its tires
W
ith the goal of
producing a tire
that is 100%
sustainable by
2050, SRI has
announced a
new initiative called Smart Tyre to
investigate every element of a tire –
focusing on product life, sustainability
and manufacturing.
“At SRI we have been focused on
sustainability for decades and our aim
to become a carbon-neutral company
has become more important to us with
each passing year,” explains Dr Bernd
Löwenhaupt, managing director of
Sumitomo Rubber Europe.
“Becoming part of the Sustainable
Natural Rubber Initiative (SNR-i)
in 2016 and helping found the
Global Platform for Sustainable
Natural Rubber has underlined our
commitment and paved the way for
real change in the coming years, as
has our Smart Tyre initiative, which
is intent on helping us create a 100% Above: By increasing achieve 30% biomass The supercomputer
sustainable tire.” the use of biomass, and 10% recycled is also helping SRI to
SRI engineers aim
SRI experts hope to achieve the to produce a 100% material by 2030. develop its Performance
goal by increasing the amount of sustainable tire The initiative also seeks Sustaining Technology,
biomass used for tire production. to increase the service life which seeks to prevent a
The company’s tires currently contain of the brand’s tires by improving drop-off in performance as a tire
approximately 25% biomass. To the understanding of the product’s wears over time.
increase this figure, recycled materials, chemical and molecular make-up. Despite many companies upping
rapeseed flowers, pine tree oil and “In order to develop a tire that their commitment to sustainability
corn will be used during production to will last a long time and maintain its in recent years, Löwenhaupt believes
peak performance level, you need to the tire sector needs to do more to
understand the chemical changes make a real difference.
that occur within the tire’s rubber at “In the tire industry, many
a molecular level during its lifespan,” manufacturers are conscientious
says Löwenhaupt. now and have signed up to initiatives
To gain such an understanding, SRI such as SNR-i,” he explains. “There
442
Fugaku is capable of is using Fugaku – a supercomputer
capable of 442 quadrillion calculations
is no easy solution as it is not just
the materials and products that we
a second – as part of the R&D process. produce that need to be sustainable,
“It can accurately simulate it’s the resources we use too.
molecular behavior and chemical “SRI and, I imagine, other tire
changes and, crucially, do it quickly,” manufacturers are all working on
comments Löwenhaupt. “By using making improvements in three key
this computer we are making real, areas: the use of sustainable raw
tangible progress in advancing rubber materials, the careful husbanding
simulation technology, which in turn of resources and fuel savings. This is
quadrillion calculations will ensure our future tires last longer all a huge undertaking, and to make
a second
and respond to changes in conditions meaningful change will take decades.
and driving styles.” But in the long run it will be vital.” 

O P I N I O N
JOE WALTER
“My first real-world encounter with the
natural shape concept was experimental...
my co-workers vacated the lab”
W
hen a conventional pneumatic tire is inflated,
Illustration: Phil Hackett

it tends to seek a shape of its own – a natural
equilibrium profile – regardless of its molded
geometry. This contour isn’t arbitrary. Thomas
Midgley observed this phenomenon a century
ago (Fisk patent filing 1920); further, tires
vulcanized in molds conforming to their preferred profiles tend to
promote service durability. Midgley further recognized that natural
tire shapes can vary from high-oval to low-oval depending on cord
path geometry from bead to crown. Goodyear mathematician
John Purdy (see TTi, December 2006, p58*) subsequently
derived explicit equations for the natural shape, cord forces and
bead tension of inflated bias-ply tires in 1928. Belted tire designs
and post-cure inflation contours, for example, were investigated
later by others using appropriate engineering approximations
to accommodate either belt constraint or cord extensibility.
Mathematically, the natural equilibrium profile is not a well-
defined circle or ellipse, but a curve known as a hyperellipse.
Most engineering students first encounter load-bearing
structures seeking a natural shape when analyzing uniformly
loaded chains or cables. Equations for suspended geometry and
cable tension can be logically derived using principles of static
equilibrium. These catenaries, subject only to uniaxial stress, are
incapable of resisting bending moments and beam-like, transverse
shear. Correspondingly so for biaxially stressed inflated tires
modeled as flexible fabric structures with calculations based
on the membrane theory (and limitations) of shells of revolution.
The oldest examples of purely tensile structures are primitive
suspension bridges often configured from grass woven into Many pneumatic tire performance claims have referenced
rope. The oldest known pneumatic structures are boat sails the advantages of natural shape molding, including Michelin’s
used in ancient Egypt. Present-day examples are parachutes “Engineers patented TRX concept, among others; but it required non-
and soap bubbles. All are shaped and stabilized by pressure may become standard rims and millimetric wheel diameters, which
differences between opposing surfaces. Tires possess both further removed proved problematic. Paradoxically, reasons have also
tensile and pneumatic characteristics and operate best from understanding the been advanced that purposefully deviate from a natural
when their cord components circumvent compression. basic underpinnings of profile. Some manufacturers have touted high-oval
They traditionally rely on pneumatic stiffness provided molding to induce circumferential crown compression
pneumatic tire design
by air pressure and distributed cord tension to bear and after inflation to improve the cut resistance of truck tire
transmit footprint loadings.
– possibly to their
treads. Bridgestone’s RCOT and TCOT technologies were
Two years after joining Firestone, I became familiar with detriment” based on molding tires closer to rolling, deflected contours
the natural shape concept and its equations – but my first rather than inflated contours – in order to control cord forces in
real-world encounter was experimental. For R&D studies, our selected tire components. In many marketing claims dealing with
lab technicians constructed a beltless radial tire with miniature tire geometry, it seems that improvements in one performance
cord tension transducers embedded at various locations. The parameter, if achieved at all, are obtained at the expense of another.
factory molds used during vulcanization featured a section- Ongoing tire trends toward lower aspect ratios and niche
height to section-width ratio of 78% – the norm for the period. runflat products have tended to reduce the load-carrying
As I inflated the ‘tire’, it changed shape remarkably, and quickly capability of pneumatically tensioned cords while increasing
stabilized to a high-oval profile; its height now exceeded its width. non-pneumatic structural mechanisms – requiring the use
Fearing the tire would dangerously rupture due to its lack of of more elaborate design algorithms. As ‘thinking machines’
hoop strength, my co-workers vacated the lab. But the profile of take increased control of computer modeling and simulation,
the inflated tire held firm and conformed to predictions, as did engineers could become further removed from understanding
the cord forces. Similar confirming experiments followed using the basic underpinnings of pneumatic tire design – possibly
different prototype tires – some tested at high and low pressures to their detriment.
spinning freely with equilibrating centrifugal force. *Visit our website to access our archive of back issues

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O P I N I O N
GREGORY SMITH
“Variable slip testing can be applied to the tire where it
handles the compromise between low and high rate”
W

hen testing tires on a Flat-Trac rig, care must
Illustration: Phil Hackett

be taken to manage the temperature and
wear while also ensuring the tire is tested
to the required range. When running free-
rolling steering tests, for example, the
maximum slip angle that the tire reaches is
important. Set it too low, and the data and resulting tire model
will not cover the required range to adequately support vehicle
dynamics simulations. Too high, however, and the tire will likely
overheat, as the high slip conditions induce heat and wear.
Most vehicle dynamics departments want their vehicle models
to correlate across the widest possible range of load cases, as
this maximizes the number of maneuvers that can be simulated.
In turn, this supports the broadly agreed objective of most car
companies to do as much vehicle development as possible using
simulation, minimizing expensive physical testing. So there lies
a dilemma. High peak slip overheats the tire, while low peak slip
doesn’t satisfy the vehicle dynamics customers’ needs.
One solution is to look at the rate at which slip angle
is applied. At constant load, it is the time at slip angles that
causes the tire to heat up. If there is a need to obtain high slip
angle data, then using a high slip angle rate to do the test as
quickly as possible will reduce the tire’s peak temperature, as
there simply isn’t the time for it to heat up. Which is great: you
get the required high slip angle and solve the heat problem. If
only tires were that easy.
The issue is with (the also very important) cornering
stiffness – the lateral response from the tire at low slip angles,
and where we drive our cars nearly all the time. Steer a bit to the
left and the tire generates a lateral force equal to the cornering
stiffness multiplied by the steer angle. Well, usually it does, but
more on that another time.
But the tire is not a rigid body, so there is a delay between
applying a steering input and getting a constant stable response. “Who says
If a very high slip angle rate is applied to the tire, the wheel you need to
snaps to the higher slip angle, while the sidewall of the tire use the same slip angle rate at higher slip angles. The low slip angle rate can
deforms and the tread takes time to come into line with be tuned to minimize hysteresis and dial in the cornering
rate across the whole
the wheel. This introduces large hysteresis loops into the stiffness measurement, while the high rate can be used
data between the outward and return sweeps – and
sweep? A low rate can
to minimize temperature build-up in the tire. The result
a poor cornering stiffness measurement. be used at low slip angles, is the best of both worlds. For once, tires become easier.
Given the need to test out to a high slip angle, tests which transitions to a The low rate, high rate and transition point can all
can either be run at a high slip angle rate, which minimizes high slip angle rate be optimized as needed for lateral testing, but further to
heating in the tire but induces hysteresis – meaning a poor at higher slip that, the same principle can be applied to longitudinal and
cornering stiffness – or a low slip angle rate, which improves angles” combined testing. A variable slip ratio rate can be applied to
the cornering stiffness measurement but causes the tire to the tire where, again, it handles the compromise between a low
overheat. It is an inherent compromise and one that leads to rate to achieve good slip stiffness and a high rate to measure peak
many test procedures doing both: they include a series of slow braking or tractive force without overheating the tire. 
sweeps to low slip angles, and a separate series of faster sweeps
to higher slip angles. This adds to the required rig time, which
costs more money, and nobody wants that.
Gregory Smith has worked extensively across the automotive
My solution is the variable-rate sweep. Who says you need and tire industries while based in Europe and North America.
to use the same slip rate across the whole sweep? A low rate More information can be found at:
can be used at low slip angles, which transitions to a high slip www.linkedin.com/in/gregorysmithuk

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T I R E B U I L D I N G M A C H I N E S
“
While the industry
is rightly focused
on safety, it does not
adopt technological
changes easily”
Mike Norman, chief commercial officer, VMI Group

Evolutions and technological advances

in production machinery have enabled
digitalization and more efficient workflows,
enhanced accuracy and improved
sustainability, but what lies ahead?
By RICHARD GOODING Images BLACK DONUTS, CONTINENTAL,
HANKOOK, ROCKWELL AUTOMATION, VMI
lines
Trend
T
he continuing industrial engineering tires at
advance of Continental. “Big data acquisition
technological and analytics offer transparency and
capabilities has improvement potential for processes
contributed to fast- and operations.”
paced developments “High-end TBMs with automated
in the tire building machine (TBM) mechanical drum technology
and tire production machinery ensure high quality and the best
sector in recent years. And as the productivity,” confirms Jae hee Kim,
demands and requirements of tire vice president of machinery and
makers also continue to shift and digital engineering, Hankook Tire.
evolve, a number of identifiable “The splicing of pre-assemblies on
trends are beginning to emerge. the drum has gone through a major
“Advanced automation – robotics breakthrough with the adoption of
and servo technology coupled with automation. Previously performed
camera innovations – gives the manually, winding of pre-assemblies
possibility [of reducing] manning required meticulous care and time.
levels without compromising on As this process has become mostly
speed and accuracy,” says Mike automated, it has led to reduced
Norman, chief commercial officer time loss and increased productivity,
at VMI Group. allowing improved quality and
“The biggest advance has been better output uniformity.”
the implementation of Industry
4.0 features such as the vertical Hands-off approach
and horizontal connectivity of Like many other industries, tire
machinery and systems,” reports production will witness increased
Thierry Wipff, vice president of automation moving forward.

“
Agile working
helps us adjust
to the volatile demands
from OE customers”
Thierry Wipff, VP, industrial engineering tires, Continental
“Automation will get more “It provides the capability to predict the splice overlap
important,” Wipff says. “Main drivers in real time and prescribe adjustments as it goes, with the
include generation change, workforce machine continuously learning how to improve quality
availability, ergonomic workplaces and and consistency,” states Konst. “For tire makers who
manufacturing efficiency. In the future, processes work with viscoelastic materials that can be difficult for
will be less operator dependent – this must be anticipated Top: By using advanced more traditional automated technologies to manipulate
and prepared for.” TBMs, manufacturers consistently, machine learning enables machines to adapt
will be able to produce
“Automated systems have already been implemented a higher yield and more easily to material variances.”
in several areas, but it is important to integrate these into reduce manning levels Ylitalo believes tire production machinery no longer
the process machinery and support the total material means separated units but an entity that consists of
flow, instead of investing in automation one area at a interconnected equipment.
time,” says Keijo Ylitalo, head of tire plant projects at “Manufacturing execution systems [MES] are
Black Donuts. “In addition to better productivity and controlling the whole production flow. In addition, higher
the reduced risk of potential errors or downtime, the automation in the process machinery, warehousing and
main target is to improve the total plant performance.” transportation systems is designed to improve the entity,
“We believe complete manufacturing automation is not only single machines or areas.”
in the very near future,” Kim says. “Smart factories driven
by automation will enable manufacturers to efficiently Efficient and scalable
approach the tire development process, saving valuable MES can help with increased flexibility, which is emerging
resources and significantly increasing production rates.” as a leading tire manufacturing trend.
“The more automated – whether self-adapting or “We’re seeing investments in three key technologies
self-guiding – TBMs become, the fewer skilled operators as some of the biggest areas that are shaping the future
and intervention will be needed,” confirms Jordan of tire production: MES, analytics software and digital
Konst, global automotive and tire industry consultant at twins. Without investing in digital tools, tire makers
Rockwell Automation. “Over time, fewer and less skilled will be unable to meet the needs of this changing
operators will be required to produce an even higher market,” Konst says. “MES helps create an efficient and
quality product with a higher yield than before.” scalable production environment by connecting digital
Machine learning is key, and will enable machines to operations and providing real-time insights to those on
continually improve production processes as time goes on. the production floor. The software automates tasks such

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as data collection, creating a more effective

documentation system for production
outcomes while increasing quality.
“Analytics software can transform raw
data from production systems into usable
information for operators. This can uncover
insights into the tire-building process by
bundling production data, tire records and
other information to help operators see
the bigger picture more easily. It can expose
operator variabilities in the tire-building process,
helping to direct more attention toward increasing
quality and consistency.”
The use of digital twins has continued to gain
“
popularity, too, as manufacturers uncover their value
in increasing scalability and improving uptime.
It’s critical for Above left: High-end
TBMs with automated
mechanical drum
“They can create a virtual replica of a physical asset
before production – allowing you to test and prove
tire technology to technology ensure a
high level of quality
machines before even buying the parts,” Konst continues.
“It can also be applied to entire facilities, simulating
innovate alongside the Below: With many
tire sizes produced
in a single plant, it
warehouse workflows.”
ever-changing trends”
“The need for flexibility has grown and smaller
is now challenging
to define machinery batches help here, as well as the availability of a suitable
specifications correctly labor force,” Norman states.
Hyang Bong Kim, vice president,
manufacturing technology, Hankook Tire “Agile working helps us adjust to the volatile demands
from OE customers who are confronted by the global
chip shortage and higher logistics costs,” Wipff says.
 SUSTAINABILITY SHIFT “Digitalization measures such as big data processing,
simulation and vision technologies are rapidly changing
Acknowledging environmental impact our manufacturing environment.”
is key to future TBM development Hyang Bong Kim (pictured above), vice president of
“A prevailing trend “The smart factory initiative manufacturing technology at Hankook Tire, believes that,
that is becoming is a main part of Hankook Tire’s as well as the production processes themselves, vehicle
more important commitment to sustainability,” developments are playing their part.
is sustainable Lee adds. “Automation and “EVs and sustainability [see Sustainability shift, left]
production,” says digitalization increase operational are leading the manufacturing trends. EVs come with
Black Donuts’ efficiency in production, but also bigger tire sizes in low series, so tire production is
Keijo Ylitalo help minimize resource waste. In more diverse. It is also important for tire companies to
(left). “Sustainable 2018, we invested ₩339,553m understand the characteristics of EVs, and create optimal
development covers [US$283m] in green factories,
tires,” he adds.
the whole tire plant reducing 54,650tCO2-eq in 2019.”
design, from the raw materials “TBMs are integral to enabling
to energy saving at machinery more sustainable tire production,”
level, including the handling of says Rockwell Automation’s
emissions, waste and scrap tires. Jordan Konst. “By facilitating
More sustainable equipment is higher quality output, they create
being installed, but our view on less scrap product and waste
sustainable production is more than more traditional methods,
comprehensive, taking a wider and more efficient cycle times
perspective into additional topics that use less energy per tire in
like incoming/outgoing traffic.” production. The machine and
“Customer requirements its subcomponents also require
regarding environmental concerns lower energy consumption to
are high,” says Jongchan Lee, consistently produce quality tires
team manager of EHS Planning by sharing braking energy over
at Hankook Tire. “Manufacturers the machine or directing it back to
strive to produce products with a the power grid. TBMs also replace
reduced carbon footprint, causing pneumatics with electric actuators,
changes in factory design, TBMs [instead of] relying on inefficient
and process equipment. compressed air systems.”

Regardless of where the developments come from, Right: Splicing of pre-

assemblies on drums
incorporating these trends isn’t without challenges. have gone through a
“The level of technological advancement is difficult major breakthrough
following the switch to
and complex,” Norman says. “While the tire industry is automated machinery
rightly focused on safety, it does not adopt technological Below: Smart
changes easily.” factories with a high
level of automation will
“It is challenging, especially if the manufacturer is enable manufacturers
not prepared for a change but expects that advanced to efficiently approach
tire development
machinery technology solves everything,” adds Ylitalo.
“The availability of skilled people in the market
and the transition from traditional tire manufacturing
to new digitized production processes is challenging,”
agrees Wipff.
Scalability is key
“The most important thing tire makers can do to
successfully adapt to the changing market is to get
started,” says Konst. “Digital transformation doesn’t need
to be accomplished overnight to be valuable. By setting
a goal and gradually working toward it, tire makers can
continue to evolve while improving their operations. operators as needed, making the incorporation of these
The key is scalability. Scalable digital solutions can technologies seamless and effective.”
be integrated with existing tools, standardized across “It’s critical for tire technology to innovate alongside
“
the enterprise. External support offers assistance to the ever-changing trends,” says Bong Kim. “We use
simulations such as Virtual Compound Design (VCD),
a predictive model for tire compound properties, to
Over time, fewer and best match silica, which is used to modularize various
less skilled operators tire sizes and efficiently develop compounds. It can take
up to three years to develop a new compound, but this
will be required to produce an period is expected to be reduced by 50% with VCD.”

What will shape future tire production developments?
even higher quality product” “We expect these ongoing changes to continue, and
be better considered when starting the design of a new
Jordan Konst, global automotive and tire manufacturing unit,” says Ylitalo. “The tire size range
industry consultant, Rockwell Automation produced in a single plant is getting wider: the focus in
manufacturing is on low rolling resistance/lightweight
tires, and bigger LTR tires with special constructions
manufactured at the same facilities. This makes
it challenging to define suitable machinery
specifications that fulfill manufacturing targets
without sacrificing productivity.”
“We are convinced that the ongoing
development in big data processing, automation
and sustainability will continue,” says Wipff.
“Over the next five years, the connected
enterprise will become standard in manufacturing,”
Konst says. “As tire makers continue to work toward their
digital transformation goals, they will create detailed
information networks to help optimize their processes,
increase productivity and profitability and ensure quality,”
he concludes.
“With technology advancing at an incredible rate,
the digital revolution that transforms factory floors is
expected to be more widely adopted,” says Bong Kim.
“Technologies such as the Internet of Things, AI and
digital twins are opening up new opportunities for
the world of manufacturing, and the race to implement
these technologies for better efficiency and sustainability
has already begun.” 

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I N T E R V I E W | CONTINENTAL MINING TIRES
GIANT
STR As the mining industry continues to
pursue productivity and reliability, Reinhard
Klant, earthmoving product line manager for
Continental Commercial Specialty Tires, explains
how the tire maker is meeting these requirements
By MARK SMYTH Images CONTINENTAL

RIDES
N
othing says go big quite like mining
tires. These vast pieces of rubber adorn
some of the largest machines in the
world, and must perform in some of
the most challenging conditions. But
like many other industries, mining is
changing, thanks to the growing use of automation,
excavation of new materials and the need to adjust its
image in a world increasingly focused on sustainability.
Tire manufacturers such as Bridgestone, Continental
and Michelin are all adapting to provide better durability
and increased productivity for a wide variety of mines
around the world. These locations differ significantly
in terms of the challenges they pose to tires and the
expectations of the mine operators themselves. Throw
in the Covid-19 pandemic and some of the recently
identified trends have begun to gather pace.
Reinhard Klant, the earthmoving product line
manager for Continental Commercial Specialty Tires,
has identified a few major trends that he sees driving
the market.
“The innovation drivers for our developments are
security and convenience, automation and connectivity,
especially digitalization, then machine electrification
and sustainability itself,” he says. Tied in with these
trends is the ongoing quest for increased durability and
productivity, requiring the development of new tires,
often to suit bigger and better earthmoving equipment.

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“
Sustainability is so
important, therefore
it is at the top of our targets”
Reinhard Klant, earthmoving product line manager,
Continental Commercial Specialty Tires
In 2019, Continental invested tires,” says Klant. “The tires come Above: As the amount more returns that are wasted – we
of reclaimed material
around US$115m in its plant in out from our factory with intelligent increases, tires must have to be careful with resources.”
Lousado, Portugal, to increase connection, including sensors that still deliver the desired As in other areas of the tire
level of durability when
production of its earthmoving and can give you heat and inflation carrying out operations
manufacturing industry, sustainability
port tires. The company’s RDT-Master pressure. You can communicate this remains a key ongoing concern.
quarrying and mining tires are made data into fleet systems, and we also “We are bringing more recycled
here, as part of a wide range aimed have our own system, ContiConnect.” materials, more reclaimed materials
at improving productivity. Heat and inflation are equally to the tire – it’s definitely a mission
“In Lousado we are making fundamental when it comes to and a big task for development,”
tires with new rubber compound ensuring the longevity of a quarry says Klant. “We have a complete
technologies that are longer lasting or mining tire, and digitalization department for that with a high
and more protective, and we are has helped to provide this crucial focus on sustainability.”
able to achieve this without having information in the cab and to remote Using reclaimed materials in the
conflicts with a load cycle length,” monitoring systems. tires has obvious benefits, but given
Klant says. In addition, there is a “Heat is always difficult,” says the demanding loads these tires have
need to constantly cater for higher Klant. “If it’s too strong, coming up to carry and the harsh environments
load-carrying capacity across the to temperatures of 80°C, 90°C, even they operate in, they must remain
various types of earthmoving 100°C at some stages, a tire will be up to the task. Klant is confident in
equipment and their attachments. ruined. To prevent that, we have a Conti’s capabilities, citing telescopic
Essentially, it’s all about having sensor that gives an alert to the fleet handlers in which tires with reworked
higher loads in the same load cycle, manager and the driver. materials are achieving the requisite
with more attachments and bigger “Inflation pressure monitoring is levels of performance and durability.
buckets to move those loads. important because you need to have “It is a challenge, but tire
low rolling resistance in order to have development itself is a challenge.
Digital influencers a tire that lasts. If you have pressure We need to make things happen,
Increased loads and productivity that is out by 10% [from optimum] and sustainability is so important,
are at the heart of driving profits, you lose 10% of the tire life. In mining, therefore it is at the top of our targets.”
but increasing levels of digitalization we are also retreading and giving a Klant points to the example of
also look set to inform the industry. second life to the tire, [so you can’t lithium mining in Chile. Here, again,
“The machines communicate afford to] destroy the carcass earlier. there is a focus on durability, and
with each other and so too must the That means more wasted material, increasing the lifecycle of the tires.

“The output from the mines is

massive. You really need a compound
technology that gives you a better
 GIVING BACK
tire life, a longer-lasting life.” He Maximizing tire life is one thing, but solutions
says that here too, digital solutions for end-of-life mining tires are key to ensuring
are critical: unlike in mining markets sustainability efforts are successful moving forward
such as South Africa, where tires
are driven to the end of the life of Recycling mining tires in Chile is set to become a little easier in
a carcass. In Chile, however, they 2023, when a joint project between Michelin and Swedish company
Enviro will be completed. The new plant is expected to be able to
will often be retreaded.
recycle up to 30,000 tons of earthmoving tires each year and will
“It’s important that you have make use of Enviro’s technology to recover carbon black, oil and
the chance to retread or recycle the steel from mining tires.
tires, so you have to have a sensor
inside to ensure you can improve
inflation pressure and maintain
the tire pressure properly, and keep
the proper setup of the tire. Then
it’s much more likely that you can
recycle the tires,” he explains.
Arrested development
Mine operators strive to increase
productivity, and expectations of
tire performance can put pressure on
the development process – especially Right: A render of
given development cycles for new Enviro’s proposed plant
tires are usually measured in years. in Uddevalla, Sweden
– the plant in Chile will
“The development cycle in be of the same design
our business is rather long,” says Below: Continental’s
Klant. “You are talking about four mining tires come
fitted with intelligent
years, because you need a lot of sensors for the crucial
field testing. You have to come up monitoring of heat
and pressure levels to
with new technologies, test new extend carcass lifetime
compounds and new casings, and industry, the earthmoving industry,

that takes time. We also use our they are as well,” Klant explains.
intelligent earthmoving technology “Obviously, you have to have contact
with sensors so that, with our test with people, and have to have
partner fleets, we are getting data people on the ground, but much
and really monitoring how our of it is becoming more remote. The
tires have improved throughout mines are trying to avoid service
their development – how are they contracts, they want to have fewer
in certain movements, during people on the ground, and this trend
acceleration, etc. We need to know has now really accelerated over the
and understand all the forces on the past couple of years with the use of
tire in real time, so that we can give remote operation and maintenance
this information to our engineers.” diagnostics. There are fewer people
Even during development on the ground and only service when
cycles, digitalization and intelligent you need it. When you see there’s
earthmoving technology can reduce something wrong with the tires,
time to market a little, says Klant. But then the team is called out. This
even then, it’s only likely to shorten trend is fascinating, and it will
the process to around three years. not go back to the way it was.
The pandemic, which has “Digitalization will be accelerated
dominated industry progress over the further,” he adds. “And it will not go
last couple of years, has also affected away from the mining industry or
the way tires have been developed. the earthmoving industry. For the
“I spend much of my time sitting last two years it has been forced on
in the home office. And the mining everyone, but now it’s here to stay.” 

TTX-Spoolex Ad-Vectorisée.indd 1 28/01/2022 11:31:56
M A C H I N E V I S I O N
GUIDING
LIGHTS

From cameras and QR codes to lasers and

sensors, developments in tire machine
inspection and vision technologies help
to evolve production accuracy. The latest
advances in monitoring technology can
sharpen the quality control process still further
By RICHARD GOODING Images BLACK DONUTS, SICK, Z-LASER
F
or pretty much every conceivable reason,
tire production needs to be exact. With more
than 100 manufacturing steps, greater control
of the processes produces a higher-quality
product. Recent technological advances in
machine vision and inspection systems have
made tire production more precise.
“Improvements in monitoring technology – including
cameras and sensors for material dimensions, lengths,
centering and splicing – make quality control simpler
and more accurate, and the measurement data easily
available,” says Aki Nurminen, solution manager, smart
factory at Black Donuts. “Manufacturers are able to
abandon additional, often manual, inspections, such
as green tire visual checks, color dot analysis after
uniformity and balance machine handlings and mold
text inspection after curing.”
Pekka Vaittinen, director of automation and solutions
at Black Donuts, concurs: “1D/2D scanners are now used
for material or tooling verification, with barcode/QR
code readings or even RFID in most phases of the
manufacturing process. Barcodes and QR codes are cost-
effective ways of recognition. Cameras are faster, the
number of pixels has increased and the size of hardware
has decreased, making it easier to implement. Importantly,
the quality of recognition software has constantly
improved. Additionally, digital data generated by sensors
is stored in databases, centralized by manufacturing
execution systems (MES)/manufacturing operations
management (MOM) and quality management systems.”

ERU_2022_02_215x275_Tire_Technology_International_RZ_ZW.indd 1 31.01.22 09:17
“3D vision technologies have

taken a big step forward in usability
and performance,” explains Fredrik
 PERFECTING PRODUCTION
Nilsson, head of business unit Optimizing tire production through sensor tech
machine vision at sensor solution
specialist Sick. “Cameras have How does sensor technology aid makes troubleshooting easier. Several
higher light sensitivity, increased production efficiency and the quality manufacturing problems will be easier
control processes? to detect, supporting production
dynamic range and vastly improved
“It supports the process fluency, efficiency. Many functionalities
measurement speeds that allow for effectiveness and accuracy, and lets are already available with existing
increased throughput and more operators work ‘hands and eyes off’ equipment; you just need to set up
reliable measurements. in different process stages,” says your systems, collect the data, analyze
“Another big change is the Black Donuts’ Aki Nurminen. “Sensor it and let the algorithms make life easier.”
use of deep learning, or artificial technology works mostly online, so “Neural technologies or AI will
intelligence [AI], for industrial there is no need to pause a process help systems to learn new cases on
machine vision applications. for measuring or calibrating.” their own, automatically adapting
This has become more accessible “As the sensor data (information performance to varying material
and possible to execute even in through connectivity) is directly characteristics,” explains Sick’s Alain
transmitted from different production Klein. “False-positive and false-negative
embedded devices. Highly accurate Accurate measurements, areas, it is possible to create algorithms rates will be dramatically improved.
3D measurements at full production performed at speed, can
related to the causal connection Manufacturing changes can also be
speed, and deep learning, have significantly improve the
standard of inspection with various process areas,” says analyzed with AI to predict upcoming
started to dramatically push and quality assurance Black Donuts’ Pekka Vaittinen. “This production line issues. Data generated
by sensors could be analyzed to add
value in areas other than pure quality
control aspects, like machine efficiency
and predictive maintenance: basically
all possibilities offered by Industry 4.0.”
quality assurance limits in the tire

manufacturing chain.”
Intelligent functionalities
Automation is among the trends
that have gathered pace. “R&D-
focused machine suppliers have
been testing sensors and intelligent
functionalities. Robots are being used
in tooling changes, tire handling and
internal logistics,” says Vaittinen.
“Companies may use a
combination of automated and
human verification in the future,”
Nurminen explains. “Human visual
inspection still remains efficient
and superior in more complex
cases, but the latest camera and
sensor technologies are more
accurate in systematic
inspections of texts,
markings and logos.”
“
“3D technology
associated with
3D vision technologies have AI/deep learning

applications will
taken a big step forward in bring automated

inspections to a
usability and performance” reliability level
never seen before,”
Fredrik Nilsson, head of business unit machine vision, Sick says Alain Klein, strategic

industry manager at Sick. “The main advantage will

be the dramatic reduction of false negatives due to
the varying material characteristics that do not affect
the quality itself. This will be a strong differentiation
for tire manufacturers in terms of productivity.”
“As demand for high-quality tires increases,
automation is required to produce the necessary
quality,” explains Ralph Tesson, CEO of Z-Laser’s North
American OEM division. Global market developments
also feed into advances. “As modern transportation
in the emerging third world increases, so does the
need for higher-quality tires,” Tesson adds. “This can
only be achieved by automating and measuring the
manufacturing processes.”
Quality assurance
“The focus on quality issues that could affect the safety
and reliability of the finished tire has considerably
increased,” Klein says. “Tire quality must be checked
as soon as possible during the production process to
 LASER LINES prevent scrap and reduce costs in splice control, DOT
code marking and sidewall inspection. Rubber is a
Sensors must be smart but also extremely tough dark, low-contrast material, and 3D technology has
The various stages of tire Bimetal mounts with precision been used more frequently in these applications.”
building create potentially harsh microgears help align the laser As Tesson explains, other trends include a switch from
environments due to the vibration to submillimeter accuracy, red lasers. “Green and blue lasers were cost prohibitive
of machinery and the induction maintaining its position and being for mass production 10 years ago. However, they are now
of powerful electric motors as resistant to changing temperature only nominally more expensive than red and are twice
part of the process. Ambient or significant vibration. as visible to the human eye for the same optical power.
temperature and humidity also “For camera-based systems, The shorter wavelengths also allow for more precision
vary significantly from one plant our laser uses a Powell lens, from the automated camera systems. Adoption of better
to another. Therefore, lasers must which creates a homogenous
mounts for the lasers has also increased tremendously.”
be designed and manufactured distribution of power along the
Moving forward, data generation will play a vital role.
with these in mind. center 80% of the line (typically
“Lasers need to be able to this would be a Gaussian “Sensors and technologies that generate data in advanced
handle a 40g level of shock for distribution). This is key for smart ways will become more common, such as cloud-based
a duration of 10ms (3ms rise camera algorithms to do subpixel software for statistical process control [SPC] and quality
time, 7ms fall time) for +/-50,000 processing and get repeatable analytics,” says Nurminen. “Fewer manual posts
cycles,” explains Z-Laser’s Ralph submillimeter measurements. For measuring length, width or thickness will be needed.
Tesson. “Z-Laser also builds lasers run-out systems, the laser has to These can be automatically measured by cameras and
that can function in environments be powerful enough to provide sensors, operators viewing quality measurements through
from 0-50°C.” sufficient light for cameras to a graphic user interface with multivariate analyses and
Accuracy is also key. “For accurately capture the data of
automatic process corrections. RFID technology may
the manual aspect of tire building, a rotating tire at speed ratings
also replace cameras and scanners in production lines.”
the laser is a much finer line than of over 130mph [209km/h].
the process requires,” Tesson Concentricity measurements are The ever-evolving range of tire products that fill ever-
“
continues. “A recent trend is analyzed to determine if the tire tighter niches is driving sensor technology evolution.
to go from red lasers to blue can sustain that speed without
or green – these tend to be more
visible against the rubber surface,
introducing a dangerous wobble.”
Green and blue lasers
helping guide operators more
precisely. Alignment is a key point. were cost prohibitive
for mass production 10
years ago. However, they
are now only nominally
more expensive than red”
Ralph Tesson, CEO, North American OEM division, Z-Laser

“
Cameras are
faster, the
number of pixels
has increased
and the size of
the hardware
has decreased,
making it easier
to implement”
Pekka Vaittinen, director of automation
and solutions, Black Donuts
“This is a never-ending issue,” As the variety of tire chamberless tires for

ranges increases,
Vaittinen says. “Most OEM demands and as the variability
the electric vehicle market,
are solvable, but at what cost? between niche measurements will be related
Producers are developing sensors, segments becomes to the different manufacturing
vital, inspection
techniques and software that are and location of tires stages involved,” adds Tesson.
usable or adaptable in various during and after Although the pace of development is fast,
production will call
industries, but in addition to the for increasingly technological challenges can also be overcome.
variety of technologies targeted at sophisticated sensors “The ever-increasing number of pixels in cameras
and reading technology
the tire industry, it may be fruitful doesn’t require any changes from the lighting side,”
to take a look outside.” Tesson says. “They can benefit from more precise
“Sensors and solutions are structured light only when their processes require
requested that are flexible enough submillimeter accuracy. In the semiconductor industry,
to solve the application and the we produce lines that can be measured by smart cameras
complexity generated by these and resolve objects to within 0.5μm – this far exceeds tire
ever-tighter niches,” says Klein. industry demands today.”
“We face this request not only “The pace at which new technologies develop is
for machine vision but for RFID, quite astonishing,” says Nilsson. “However, the journey
as well as detection and safety to bring a new technology into an industry-proven
sensors. Application software sensor that provides reliable measurements regardless
embedded in our sensors or of the environment conditions is challenging, often
based in the cloud, associated needing time. We have to stay updated on trends
with common hardware, is a good but need to make a careful choice of what will
way to deal with those challenges.” bring customers the most future value. Sometimes
“As manufacturers start to you simply must accept that you are not first on the
experiment with different, non- market as long as what you offer provides the quality
traditional tire compounds and and values customers expect.” 

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S P E C I A L R E P O R T
S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y
46
PUTTING THEORY
INTO PRACTICE
TTi speaks to tire makers and international
bodies that are aiming to hold the industry’s
environmental awareness to account and instill
best practices across the global production chain
52
HANDLING NEW
MARKET DEMANDS
Zeppelin Systems’ Guido Veit explains how the
company is contributing to a circular economy,
reducing the environmental impact of its
products through specialist recycling practices
54
SPECIALIZING IN
SUSTAINABILITY
Luc ter Bogt of Momentive Performance
Materials reveals how sustainability has
become a core business and development
driver for the supplier of advanced silanes

S P E C I A L R E P O R T: S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y
I T ’ S N OT
EASY
BEING
GREEN
Exploring the progress made by parties across the
tire industry in focusing on sustainable practices
By MARK SMYTH
I
n some respects, the Covid-19 pandemic
distracted a lot of industries (and people) from
the road to sustainability, as hygiene protection
yielded a surge in demand for single-use plastics
and disposable items. But at the same time, it gave
many companies a chance to look more closely at
sustainability – not just in terms of products, but the
entire way they operate their business.
Within the tire industry, many manufacturers
have signed up to various organizations, making
firm commitments to be sustainable throughout
the lifecycle of a tire. It’s a topic that is not only
high on the agenda but also receiving far more public
attention. The move to alternative forms of propulsion
also casts more attention on other sources of emissions,
including tire and road wear particles – not just an area
of environmental concern but also a part of the whole
topic of sustainable lifecycles.
Filippo Bettini, chief sustainability and risk governance
officer at Pirelli, says it’s not about one, single, critical
aspect but rather what he calls eco and safety design.
“Instead of prioritizing a single element or process,
we aim to develop a design process in which the
sustainability of every step in the tire’s lifecycle is taken
into account at the moment of design. In other words,
each aspect, from raw materials to production processes

“
The aim is a design
process in which
the sustainability of
every step in the tire’s
lifecycle is taken
into account at the
moment of design”
Filippo Bettini, chief sustainability
and risk governance officer, Pirelli

to usage to end-of-life recovery, should be designed

for optimal sustainability at the outset. It’s a kind of
lifecycle assessment applied in reverse, at the moment
of conception, rather than for retrospective examination.”
Daniele Lorenzetti, chief technology officer at Apollo
Tyres, goes deeper, pointing out some of the main pillars
the company is working to address as it heads toward its
future sustainability plans, and its ultimate goal of being
carbon neutral by 2050. The main pillars, he explains, are
combating climate change, moving toward the circular
economy, establishing sustainability governance, building
a responsible value chain, fostering a people-centric
approach and engaging with communities.
Legislation in markets around the world is also driving
change. In India for example, Lorenzetti says the Extended
Producer Responsibility regulations mean that companies
must address the issue of sustainability to avoid penalties.
Resource management
One of the major areas linked to tire sustainability is
the production of resources, including natural rubber,
which is where organizations such as the Global
Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR) are
key. Formed in October 2018 out of the Tire Industry
Project (TIP), it is now a multi-stakeholder international
membership-based organization that covers 50% of the
demand for natural rubber.
It’s had a busy couple of years, explains GPSNR
director Stefano Savi, whose team oversaw the creation
of a global framework in 2020 to which most of the
major tire manufacturers have already signed up, as
well as automotive OEMs such as BMW, Renault Group,
Toyota and, in 2021, Volkswagen.
Unlike the TIP and others that look at the whole tire
lifecycle, the GPSNR will remain focused predominantly
on the production and processing of natural rubber,
according to Savi. Within that, the framework calls for
commitment to healthy and functioning ecosystems,
legal compliance, respecting human rights and Right: Noxxxx
community livelihoods and instituting systems and
The GPSNR
membership
covers
50%
of the demand for
natural rubber
Goodyear’s demonstration
tire, made from 70%
sustainable materials

processes that can ensure the implementation of the

policy components.
Many of the member companies have adjusted their
policies in line with the framework, but it all remains a
commitment for now, rather than anything that can be
enforced. Savi says this has been addressed over the past
year, with a comprehensive questionnaire issued to all
members in late 2021 that will form a baseline on which
to create new regulations.
The organization is developing a new risk-based
“
approach in 2022, something that Savi says is slightly
different from the traditional form of
Establishing certification, such as that operated by

the Programme for the Endorsement
the reporting of Forest Certification (PEFC) and others.

“We want to look more broadly at how
requirements was the companies operate, and understand where
these companies have higher risks in respect to
a huge piece of their commitments,” he says. “Because of the
regions where they operate, some companies
work, and will set might have higher risks of deforestation;
the foundation
others have higher risks of forced labor and
so on. Depending on what the risks are for
of the assurance each company, we will have requirements

for third-party verification of the level of
model for GPSNR” progress they’re communicating to us. This is

what we’re working on in 2022, together with
Stefano Savi, director, GPSNR the implementation guidance for companies.”
A great deal has been achieved during the
pandemic, but Savi says that with so many members and
stakeholders, achieving consensus has not always been
easy. That is further amplified by the fact that many of
the natural rubber producers are owners of smallholdings,
typically covering just a couple of hectares of land. The
PEFC warns that the quest for sustainability must not
come at the expense of the millions of smallholders
who are reliant on the natural rubber industry for their
livelihoods – this is why the GPSNR has also been keen
to ensure they are protected.
The numbers are huge – Savi says there could
be between six and seven million smallholders. It’s
impossible to pull all of them into the policy framework
individually, but he says they are one of the main
categories of membership, and GPSNR has lots of advice
and information available to help them if they ask.
Much of that information is already part of working
groups around the world, often pulled from existing
regulations, policies or research within member
companies. Along with the secretariat, these working
groups have been extremely busy over the past year,
with some major milestones reached.
“Establishing the reporting requirements was a
huge piece of work and it will really set the foundation
of what is the assurance model for GPSNR and the things
that we are asking companies to work on,” says Savi.
“Another thing we managed to do and present at COP
26 is our positioning on agroforestry – the reason why
I’m particularly happy about that is because it was a
request that came from smallholders in GPSNR. Through

 GROUND WORK
Global frameworks are one thing, but
progress is needed at the local level too
Another big achievement over the past year has been the
implementation of some projects on the ground, something
GPSNR’s Stefano Savi says was always in the plan, but which
took a while to get going.
“In the natural rubber industry, you cannot just apply a
stick to get things to become better. The issue is that at the
smallholder level there’s a lack of capital needed to improve
the practices, so it’s important that members of the industry
come together and collectively fund initiatives to improve
things. We have fully funded projects that are starting
this year in Indonesia, Thailand and Cote d’Ivoire that will
cover good agricultural practices and will cover income
diversification and access to good planting material for
farmers. We were a bit delayed because of [the pandemic],
so it’s great to get these projects running and establish the
baseline for projects going forward.”
their representation on the executive committee, they Latex rubber plantations Material gains
like those in Thailand
asked the organization to come up with a position on will be the focus of The scale of the industry’s sustainability focus begins
agroforestry, because they want it to be serious about GPSNR projects to become apparent when you consider that all of the
our work and how we link sustainability to agroforestry above doesn’t even begin to touch upon myriad other
practices, especially for smallholders.” issues – such as making production facilities carbon
This commitment to smallholders has also led to neutral, introducing more end-of-life recycling solutions
the creation of agricultural practice guidelines, which and conducting research to address the issue of tire
will be introduced at an international level initially, particulate emissions.
before being adopted at local levels during 2022. And what about the tires themselves? Ultimately,
the aim could be to create a 100% sustainable tire,
Cross purpose something Goodyear has committed to achieving by
All of these efforts reflect a more collaborative approach 2030. Already, in 2022, the tire maker has launched
across the tire industry, but one that also looks more a demonstration tire with 70% sustainable materials,
holistically at sustainability. Alessandro Furno, director including recycled polyester, silica made from discarded
of sustainability for Bridgestone EMIA, tells TTi there is rice husk ash and carbon blacks produced from methane,
a cross-sector trend to take a much more comprehensive carbon dioxide and plant-based oil instead of traditional
organizational approach to sustainability, rather than the petroleum-based products.
traditional siloed route. “We set an ambitious goal in 2020 to create a tire
In January 2022, Bridgestone established a dedicated made 100% from sustainable materials in 10 years, and
cross-functional office to embed sustainability across our scientists and engineers have made great progress
the business and center the entire organization around toward that goal,” says Chris Helsel, Goodyear’s senior
sustainability efforts, priorities and driving positive vice president of global operations and chief technology
outcomes. It begins with sourcing, but even in research officer. “This is an exciting achievement that demonstrates
and development, efforts are being made to create more our commitment to increasing the use of sustainable
sustainable solutions. materials in our tires.”
Bridgestone’s virtual tire development enables the The past couple of years are likely to be known more for
creation of a digital twin of a tire in order to predict the impact of the pandemic, but they have also been years
performance without actually creating a physical in which a great deal of groundwork was achieved by the
tire. The company says this has enabled it to reduce tire industry in the area of sustainability. Stakeholders big
CO2 emissions and raw material usage by 60%, while and small came together to implement a framework that
also avoiding having to make 200 prototype tires and will shape not just the industry itself, but the products it
conduct 40,000km of testing for each new tire project. makes and their role in the future of mobility. 

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S P E C I A L R E P O R T: S U P P L I E R I N T E R V I E W
ZEPPELIN SYSTEMS
This bulk material handling expert contributes
to a circular economy by reducing the environmental
impact of its products through recycling with specialist equipment
 TO PRODUCE TIRES THAT PERFORM TO THE specialized handling technology is required. It is not the same
HIGHEST LEVEL, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT, FROM as having standard carbon black as a filler in a tire.”
THE START OF THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS, To produce tires with high levels of sustainability and quality,
MATERIALS ARE HANDLED WITH THE UTMOST tire manufacturers are opting to use sustainable raw materials
CARE, ACCURACY AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL. such as liquid functional additives. These materials contribute to
a lower rolling resistance and improve environmental performance.
German bulk material handling specialist Zeppelin Systems “We developed specialist equipment for handling silica
ensures that mixtures used in tire production have a high level and silane 15 years ago when the two raw materials came
of consistency, resulting in products that are economical and to the market in a massive way, and since then we have
environmentally friendly while meeting stringent quality standards. further developed our technologies to handle these,” says
“Naturally, we are very much involved in the handling of raw Veit. “Our system is a closed conveying system for handling
materials. However, this can be quite difficult because you have silica securely without any dust emissions because the bulk
to deal with hundreds of powders, pellets, plastics, waxes and material is encapsulated and closed in a pipe.
liquids,” explains Guido Veit, vice president of sales projects at “On the liquid side, silane requires special care when
Zeppelin Systems. “We unload them, store them, convey them, handling because it’s not like other oily ingredients, and it
and finally bring them to the mixer. Our business is purely focused is not self-lubricating,” continues Veit. “Therefore, you need
on the mixing room itself.” dedicated equipment to dose this material correctly, so we have
With sustainability a key focus, Zeppelin’s aim is to use developed a liquid dosing system for accuracy.”
the very latest in functional materials and additives to ensure
that each tire can be produced more sustainably in terms of
performance and reduced rolling resistance. By implementing
these changes, the company is further supporting a circular
economy by bringing renewable and recycled raw materials “Inventing a process
back into the production process.
“This enables the tire producers to have products with a more is only the first step.
sustainable footprint,” comments Veit. “In order to use recycled
products or sustainably produced products, a dedicated and You have to build plants,
Below: Raw materials
gain practical experience
for use within rubber
compounds are safely and make these
and gently conveyed
within Zeppelin systems systems perfect”

Zeppelin has
built more than
500
systems around
the world
“To support the

availability of recycled
materials, we help
startups bring their
technologies to life”
Veit explains that a new type of rubber compound – which Above: Specialist out of the mixture in an uncontrolled manner, which would
dosing equipment
uses these highly activated functional additives – improves the enables companies
thus change the quality of the formulation. Secondly, the
braking performance of tires and reduces wear, resulting in fewer to handle recycled extracted dust from conventional extraction systems is usually
tire road wear particles polluting the environment. However, these materials accurately waste and must be disposed of. This is what Zeppelin Systems
materials create challenges of their own, for which Zeppelin has avoids with its systems.”
designed some solutions. The company has more than 30 years of experience in the
“You can only handle these materials with a newly designed rubber industry. It is also involved in wider rubber sustainability
liquid dosing system such as the one we invented recently,” and actively searches for ways to bring new forms of recycling
says Veit. “It is a highly precise system: we’ve locked the liquid technologies to market.
in a closed system, which in principle guarantees a high level “Tire manufacturers are our core customer base at the moment,
of control – unlike the old and inaccurate open weighing system. but we are increasingly trying to help startup companies develop
The closed and encapsulated system reduces or completely avoids recycling technologies,” says Veit. “To support the availability of
the cross-contamination of diverse additives. recycled materials, we help startups bring their technologies to life.”
“The liquid dosing contributes in two ways,” he continues. Zeppelin Systems aims to support a range of recycling
“Firstly, in principle, it enables the handling of new materials technologies, including pyrolysis, purification and waterjet. The
that you cannot handle with old equipment. And secondly, waterjet technology enables customers to granulate truck tires
you improve the accuracy of handling all of your liquids with up to giant tires (and other large applications) using highly
this dedicated technology.” pressurized water.
“We are not the developer of these technologies, but we
PINPOINT PRECISION help make them a reality,” adds Veit. “Inventing a process is
Material management and accuracy is also key to the material only the first step. You have to build plants, gain practical
handling process, Veit explains. experience and make these systems perfect. Then you have
“Particularly during the weighing of the raw materials as to integrate them into a plant design and scale them up to a
well as during the filling process of the mixer, dust formation reasonable level to make them profitable in an economical field.”
cannot be completely avoided. To prevent this dust entering As the industry develops and increases its uptake of
the production environment, filters and aspiration systems are sustainably sourced materials, Zeppelin Systems seeks to
used. Their design must be precisely tailored to the process share its specialist knowledge and highly accurate dosing
in order to prevent two negative effects on the quality of the systems to ensure the environmentally conscious operation
mixture. First, no components of the mixture should be aspirated of the bulk material handling sector. 

MOMENTIVE
PERFORMANCE
MATERIALS
Silanes producer focuses on the key link between sustainability
and performance to reduce the environmental footprint of tires
SPECIALTY SUPPLIER OF ADVANCED SILANES

MOMENTIVE PERFORMANCE MATERIALS HAS
PLACED A FIRM FOCUS ON COMPANY AND
INDUSTRY SUSTAINABILITY. “There is a very strong
Having introduced NXT silane almost 20 years ago, Momentive is
using the material to help tire manufacturers to produce products
pull from the tire
with greener credentials.
“Sustainability is one of our core values,” says Luc ter Bogt,
industry to have new
business development director EMEA and India for tire and rubber materials that are more
silanes at Momentive. “We have a roadmap called Vision 2025
with clear and quantitative sustainability goals that focus on sustainable in nature
people, products and the planet.”
NXT is a bifunctional, blocked mercapto silane, meaning the and performance”
sulfur in the molecule is protected during mixing. This is beneficial
for tire makers as it enables mixing at higher temperatures, thus
improving the productivity of silica compound mixing.
“The blocking group also contributes to covering the polar
silica surface, improving the silica dispersion,” explains ter Bogt. “NXT can help companies process these more advanced tread
“This, together with purely monosulfidic cross-links between the compounds. We are seeing a growing interest in this advanced
silica filler and polymers, results in significantly better compound silane and therefore need to expand our production capacity.”
dynamic properties.” In addition to helping other businesses through the use
With the increasing use of advanced raw materials such as of NXT silane, Momentive has introduced several processes
functionalized polymers, high-surface-area fillers and performance and goals to increase company sustainability with the aim of
resins, more reactive components are increasingly present in the reducing its carbon footprint.
tread compound. Targets have also been put in place at all of Momentive’s
“It is more challenging to process these tread formulations production sites to reduce the environmental footprint by
on existing mixing and extrusion equipment,” continues ter Bogt. using carbon neutral energy and reducing water use and waste.

Normally,
80% of a tire is
no longer used at
the end-of-life
stage
To begin solving the issue of sustainability, ter Bogt believes

that companies need to bring together their collective expertise
to improve the environmental credentials of individual elements
and increase circularity.
“It’s a joint challenge for the industry – not just for the tire
production companies, but also for supplying companies and
especially material producers like Momentive,” he says. “What
we currently do is put sustainability as a default agenda in
discussions with customers, so we can help them improve the
circularity of tires. We also need to know what the companies
expect from us as a raw material supplier, and we are happy
that this dialog has started.”
To ensure Momentive gathers this feedback on potential
silanes sooner, it is working with tire manufacturers earlier on
in the development process, enabling it to speed up its processes
and to be more effective in launching new materials. With more
than 80 years of silicone chemistry experience and a world-class
Denoting its sustainability efforts, Momentive currently holds Above: The purely application lab in Charlotte, North Carolina, ter Bogt believes the
a silver EcoVadis rating and aims to become platinum in 2025. monosulfidic cross- facility – which houses colleagues from within the industry – will
links between the silica
“Most tire companies have already set sustainability targets filler and polymers help Momentive be a solid development partner moving forward.
for 2030, so we have started proactively talking to our customers in NXT silane result “There is a very strong pull from the tire industry to have new
about sustainability and how we can help them,” says ter Bogt. in better compound materials that are more sustainable in nature and performance,”
dynamic properties
“Customers are increasing their use of tire lifecycle assessments adds ter Bogt. “This involves customers earlier on in the process
Left: To reduce tire
as a tool to quantify and improve circularity. We are working on particulate emissions, and means that we are focused on the sustainability effects of
the carbon footprint of our advanced silanes to see where we next-generation new materials.
can improve and reduce the footprint further.” silanes will need to “One very important target for next-generation advanced
provide improved wear
To achieve this, Momentive is evaluating the amount of resistance over time silanes is to improve wear resistance to lessen tire particulate
renewable raw materials it uses when manufacturing silanes. Ter Right: Momentive emissions and to enable a further reduction in rolling resistance.
Bogt explains how this will also improve the circular economy. aims to increase We welcome tire manufacturers and co-suppliers to partner with
“Momentive is looking into more renewable silanes and is company sustainability us,” concludes ter Bogt.
by utilizing recycled
already using a certain amount of renewable raw materials in materials and forming As the sector strives for a cleaner future, Momentive aims to
its silane molecules,” he says. “We think we can increase it and new collaborations continue implementing environmentally conscious processes, in
we’re openly discussing this with customers, but we also want addition to ensuring that high-performance, sustainably produced
to challenge customers with how significant these steps are. silanes are on hand to make tire manufacturing and tire use a clean
“Despite making up only a small percentage of the tire, NXT and circular activity. 
has a big impact, especially during the use phase,” continues ter
Bogt. “We don’t want to give that away by affecting the rolling
resistance of the tire. Our focus is on both: more sustainable
resources used in our silanes and a significant impact during
the tire use phase.”
With end-of-life tires and the question of how to recycle
them, ter Bogt has some interesting ideas for the future.
“We see renewed interest in the retreading of tires, which
is not common for passenger car tires. The major challenge is
to keep the rolling resistance of the retreaded tire at least equal,”
he explains. “Normally, 80% of a tire is no longer used [at the]
end-of-life [stage], however, the raw materials could be reused
by retreading. NXT silane could contribute to a feasible retreading
process because of easier compound processing and also because
it could help to lower the rolling resistance of a retreaded tire.”

N O K I A N A L L-T E R R A I N D E V E LO P M E N T

ALL
ABOARD
Nokian Tyres is targeting new market segments
with the launch of its latest tire family
By MARC NOORDELOOS Images NOKIAN
 BY THE NUMBERS
Outpost AT
Will come in 64 sizes, from
15in to 22in, with P-metric
and higher-load light-truck
(LT) configurations available
Outpost APT
Will be available in 34 sizes,
ranging from 16in to 20in
diameters, and P-metric only

T
he Hakkapeliitta line of winter tires Above and inset: Outpost AT vary in size and shape, helping to reduce
Winter testing took
from Nokian has earned a long-standing, place at Nokian’s test tread noise. There’s also reinforcement between the
loyal following. The devotion to the arctic- center in Ivalo, Finland, tread blocks, which helps to prevent tread squirm.
as well as in British
focused tires is so strong that some at the Columbia, Canada
When it comes to traction, the Outpost AT uses
company refer to it as ‘The Cult of Hakka’. three different types of 3D siping. Closed sipes sit in
Now Nokian hopes to have a similar the center of the tire, helping with stability while still
passionate connection with off-road and adventure providing biting edges for winter performance. Open
enthusiasts with its new Outpost family of all-terrain sipes are used in the center of the tread block, helping
tires – the Outpost AT and Outpost APT. with grip and to break up the tread blocks. The outer area
The Outpost AT is the more traditional all-terrain design of the tread carries semi-open sipes to assist with stability
of the two. The chunky, aggressive tire replaces the Rotiiva and grip. Rolling resistance is a particularly important
AT and will be sold globally. Nokian has expanded its use focus for tire companies and not an easy task on all-
of aramid technology on the Outpost AT. Instead of fitting terrain tires. Nonetheless, Nokian has improved the
the material solely to the sidewall, the puncture-resistant Outpost AT by 3% compared with its predecessor.
fibers also sit under the tread. Another enhancement is
what Nokian calls Gravel Guard. This feature adds extra Finding purpose
material to grooves in the tire, helping to prevent stone The Outpost APT is designed specifically for the North
drilling – rocks and stones damaging the structure of the American market. APT stands for ‘all-purpose terrain’
tire when transitioning from dirt to tarmac. and is quite a new segment – both for the tire market
In addition to reducing punctures and damage, Nokian and Nokian. The Outpost APT is more road-focused
is aiming to control noise levels – a common complaint compared to the Outpost AT, while maintaining a rugged
with aggressive all-terrain tires. The tread blocks on the design along with a certain amount of off-road ability.

“The Outpost APT is an all-purpose based on the mounting orientation – Far left: Gravel Guard certification, it’s sort of a pass or fail.
technology includes
terrain tire versatile enough to let extroverted or more understated. extra material in the Our winter tires are well past that
drivers of SUVs, crossovers and small Nokian also worked on compound grooves, to prevent pass level. The Outpost family of tires
stone drilling damage
light-trucks thrive in all conditions, advancement with the Outpost exceed that pass level too, but they
Left: The APT tread
from weekend getaways to the daily APT. Further progress in silica-based design features block aren’t going to be at the same level
grind,” says Steve Bourassa, a product compounds helped broaden the support that is suited as our winter tires.”
to on-road usage
manager at Nokian Tyres. The APT performance of the tire in all areas. Much of the wet and dry
Above: The Outpost
is aimed at buyers who want the APT also features a development took place near
stability and comfort of a typical Work and progress dual sidewall design Nokian’s headquarters in Nokian,
North American all-season tire but Development of the Outpost tires Finland. Additional testing was
with the option to venture further took five years. Winter testing took performed in Texas, and at various
afield. Aramid fibers are fitted only place at Nokian’s test center in test tracks around the globe. The
to the sidewalls, and the tread blocks Ivalo, Finland, as well as in British company’s new Spain Test Center
feature more support to improve Columbia, Canada. Both tires carry in Santa Cruz de la Zarza wasn’t used
performance on the road. Like the the 3PMSF stamp but don’t offer for development of the Outpost tires
Outpost AT, gravel guards sit in the the full snow, ice and cold-weather because it was under construction
tread area and an aggressive sidewall capabilities of a dedicated winter tire. at the time. The new all-terrain tires
design is used. But unlike the AT, “Our winter tire products are are produced at the Nokian factory
the Outpost APT molds that sidewall high on the winter performance in Vsevolozhsk, Russia. Production
style to only one side of the tire. This scale,” says Bourassa. “If you look may eventually also take place
decision enables buyers to choose at the testing procedure at Nokian’s USA plant in Dayton,
which design they want on display to get that 3PMSF Tennessee, which opened in 2019.
There’s very little application
overlap between the Outpost AT
and Outpost APT, especially when
it comes to fitment. The Outpost
AT is expected to be the volume
leader and is geared toward larger
pickup trucks and SUVs; the Outpost
APT is focused on CUVs, smaller
SUVs and smaller pickup trucks.
As far as sizes go, the Outpost AT
sits at 64, ranging from 15in to 22in
Left and inset: diameter, with P-metric and higher-
The Outpost APT is
more road-focused load light-truck configurations
and has been designed available. The APT comes in 34
specifically for the
North American market sizes, from 16in to 20in diameters
and P-metric only. Both tires are on
sale now, with the majority of sizes
available from launch.
If the on-paper specs of the tires
are reflected in reactions from drivers,
the new Outpost tire family could
well inspire Hakkapeliitta-like loyalty
in customers. 

E X P O P R E V I E W
TIRE TECHNOLOGY
EXPO IS BACK!
Discover new technologies, innovations and business
partners at the 2022 Tire Technology Expo in
Hannover, Germany, on May 18, 19 and 20. Network
with and source from the best at the industry's
leading live exhibition and conference!
By CHRISTINE VELARDE

REGISTER
ONLINE NOW
FOR YOUR FREE
CONTACTLESS
EXHIBITION
ENTRY
BADGE!
R
eturning to Deutsche Messe in Hannover,
Germany, on May 18, 19 and 20, Tire
Technology Expo remains Europe’s most
important tire manufacturing technology
exhibition and conference. With exhibits from
many of the world’s most important suppliers to
the tire manufacturing industry, plus a major conference, Tire
Technology Expo is quite simply a must-attend industry event,
providing visitors, exhibitors and conference delegates with
a highly valuable networking opportunity that is unrivaled
within the sector – and unique to the staging of a live show.
Tire Technology Expo 2022 will offer visitors the world’s
premier technology showcase, with live demonstrations of
equipment and new materials covering the complete spectrum
of the tire manufacturing process. Technologies on display
include: RFID and tracking, molds, curing, TPMS reading
solutions, curing technologies, smart tires, natural rubber,
tire design and simulation – and much, much more!
The expo’s prestigious conference, which will feature
more than 120 expert speakers from leading companies
and institutions, will highlight the issues and trends set to
dominate the tire business in the future. Key presenters
include: Jukka Antila, technical director at UTAC; Frederic
Biesse, senior fellow of tire physics and performance
modelization for Michelin; and Jorge Lacayo-Pineda, head
BACK IN
of expert field for materials evaluation for Continental Reifen
Deutschland – and many more!
HANNOVER
Meanwhile, the Tire Technology International Awards for MAY 18, 19, 20
2022!
Innovation and Excellence are also set to be presented live
during the event, recognizing key industry achievements
over the past 12 months.
Stay up to date on the latest exhibitor news and speaker
additions by visiting www.tiretechnology-expo.com 

NEW AUTOMATIC FUSION OF FEATURES

TIRE GRADING LINE At Tire Technology Expo, GL Inspect will present a new optical 3D
measurement system called TriScanTire Fusion, which unites portability,
Hofmann Maschinen- und final inspection across a wide measurability, customizability and accuracy.
Anlagenbau GmbH will reveal its portfolio of tire types. The system has a compact design, giving customers a solution that
new ATG-EVO automatic tire grading Key innovations include a is easy to relocate and put into operation. In addition, the Fusion uses a
line at the expo in Hannover. The central database as the basis for shadow-free optical sensor that is unique in the tire industry and enables
newly developed machine has a multi-machine operation with the measurement of areas on the tire that usual systems cannot reach
multitude of technical innovations recipe management, statistics and due to shadowing. This new technology is based on a point sensor
and focuses on Industry 4.0 as well limit management, the auto-teach with collinear beam path. This means that the incoming beam of the
as ecological considerations. process, predictive maintenance and light source and the reflected beam from the tire lie on the same path.
The very compact machine offers a reduction in downtime through Compared with, for example, sheet-of-light triangulation sensors, it will
new perspectives for series production maintenance options while the not exhibit any shadow effects. This is advantageous for winter tire profiles
for customers with small production machine is running. These and with their many narrow sipes and for summer tire profiles with increasingly
areas. With a short cycle time and many other features of the ATG- narrow lateral groves in the shoulder area. Tires can be digitalized even
without the intervention of operators EVO guarantee shorter throughput more comprehensively, and wear measurements will become more reliable.
and/or maintenance personnel, the times in production operations, The Fusion is designed for 3D tread analysis and profile measurements
machine can perform fully automated leading to quality management for PCR, LTR and MC tires. It can perform the same measurements as
and maintenance benefits. its big brother, the TriScanTire, including wear measurement, lifetime
The first series machine will be estimation, frequency and heel and toe analysis, tread wear indicator
available for live demonstrations (TWI), and spike measurement. The software produces repeatable data
at the company’s headquarters in and documentation to obtain data, for example, for DIN EN ISO 9001.
Worms, Germany, in the fourth Tire and automobile manufacturers and independent test institutes
quarter of 2022. use Fusion for tire development, homologation, initial qualification of tires,
Hofmann Maschinen- und competitor studies and continuous tire quality assurance.
Anlagenbau GL Inspect
Booth 2034 Booth 2032
NEW TEST BENCH FOR REGISTER

TRUCK AND BUS TIRES ONLINE NOW
Expo visitors will be able to check out ZF's new final-finish tire FOR YOUR FREE
test equipment for the inspection of truck and bus radial tires,
ZF LUB6 TBR. Many existing tire test systems measure either
ENTRY BADGE!
uniformity or dynamic unbalance independently. The innovation, www.tiretechnology-expo.com
according to ZF, is to combine both of these features into a single
machine: the ZF Low Speed Uniformity Balancing Machine (LUB)
test system, offering customers several advantages.
The machine enables users to measure all conventional
uniformity, static and dynamic unbalances and geometry
characteristics within one cycle at a single station of the test
equipment. These tasks are completed in less than 60 seconds.
This combination of features permits a smaller footprint
compared with a machine with multiple stations, a reduction
in the amount of compressed air used for the inflation of the
tires and the same PLC and rim tooling.
The ZF LUB6 TBR combines all the proven functionalities,
technologies and new developments in a single machine.
To meet the different global requirements for high load
traffic, the machine can apply a maximum force of 63kN load
to a tire that can be inflated to a maximum pressure of 10 bar
(145psi) for a maximum tire diameter and width of 1.5m and
660mm, respectively.
ZF
Booth 8022

NEW SLITTING AND Speaker spotlight

REWINDING SPOOLING Q&A
Spoolex will introduce its new solutions machine – making the entire process JUKKA ANTILA
for slitting and rewinding spooling to safe and independent for the operator. Technical director, Test World
increase productivity at this year's Expo. To optimize cap-strip production,
For non-stop processing, Spoolex’s Spoolex offers a complete converting The challenges of ice grip testing
Calemard brand offers compact, easy- cell including fully automated handling for European tire labeling
to-use in-line solutions to produce between the wide slitter and the spooling
high-quality pads or spools directly from line. The patented Aquirion has been Tell us about your presentation.
the calendering line. This includes liner designed to increase production speed In 2021, the European Tyre Labelling Regulation introduced
insertion with automatic splicing unit, and efficiency by limiting handling by a new ice grip symbol for tires designed for extreme winter
conditions. The test for this is particularly demanding and
accumulator, loop tension control, in-line operators and avoiding intermediate
it is difficult to achieve reliable and repeatable results.
slitter (crush, shear, floating or fixed razor storage. This flexible, highly automated
This presentation will highlight how even small variations
blades), turret rewinder or continuous solution can be adapted to meet current in climatic conditions affect the test results, and why it is
spooling with automatic secondary rolls needs and change with load increases and necessary to test in a very limited temperature window to
or spools change. can be retrofitted on existing machines. achieve the deviation in results required by the regulation.
Final pads or spools are automatically Spoolex The advantages and disadvantages of testing indoors versus
unloaded – without the need to stop the Booth 7038 outdoors will also be discussed, with actual test data [provided]
for comparison.
Why was a new ice grip symbol needed?
For the last 10 years, winter tires have been identified only
with a test on snow. The test is relatively easy to pass, and
mid-European winter tires and even some all-season tires
normally pass this test. However, in severe winter conditions
including icy roads particularly in Nordic countries, this is not
good enough. Driving in these conditions requires real winter
tires designed for slippery conditions.
The industry has developed a suitable test for this, and
finally in 2021 a standardized method has been published
and a new ice grip symbol added to the tire label.
What makes this test particularly demanding?
The test method involves braking on ice, three times,
calculating the average. Ice testing is very difficult because
of several factors: temperatures, wind, sunshine, humidity;
NEW TIRE BUILDING MACHINE any snow dust on the surface can cause big variations in
results. The standard sets demanding limits for the results
variation and fulfilling the requirements is challenging.
Mesnac will present its new P-PRO2 Extra according to customers’ requirements and
The ice testing regulation sets an additional requirement
tire building machine at Tire Technology tire construction, and is keen to bring the compared to snow testing. In snow testing you just test twice,
Expo, ready for fully automatic production new P-PRO2 models to the international calculate the average, and if the average passes the limit,
of passenger, light truck and off-road tires. market. These are equipped with double that’s it. In ice testing the test has to be done three times
The technology was successfully launched let-off stations using large-capacity (truck) [with the results averaged and examined against] the limit,
in real tire production environments last cassettes, universal three-carcass servicers like in snow testing. But additionally, all three tests have to
year and the number of machines ordered ready for ply-up and ply-down technology, stay inside a certain deviation, which is different compared
proves its good design. Automatic the ability to produce high-ply tires, to snow testing. This makes it difficult.
production, total control of produced application of two reinforced materials
What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of
tires, self-analysis functions, predictive from two automatic servicers and more.
indoor versus outdoor testing?
communication with operators and The modular design of the P-PRO2 means Tire testing goes toward indoor testing very quickly. That’s a
maintenance staff, environmental functions the tire building machine is ready for any clear trend, because in controlled conditions results quality
and many other features introduce a new customer’s tire construction, and is flexible is better, testing is quicker and development cycles can be
range of tire building functionalities. enough for the MERTC team to modify each shorter. There is, however, one thing to remember: in indoor
Furthermore, the team at the Mesnac machine exactly to customer needs. testing it is preferable to use natural snow, because tire
European Research and Technical Center Mesnac testing is a lot about testing the friction between the tire/
(MERTC) is ready for P-PRO2 customization surface contact. Artificial snow can give false results and lead
Booth 4036
development in the wrong direction.
In ice testing, especially where this ice grip regulation
is concerned, indoor testing is clearly the best option. It is
possible to get acceptable results outdoors, but at a much
slower rate, with more discarded tests and additional costs
compared to indoor testing. At UTAC Ivalo we aim to test
indoors year-round, even if outdoor ice tracks are operational.
Please visit the website for full conference program and speaker details
www.tiretechnology-expo.com

NEW FAST AND PRECISE

NO PALLETS, HALF RFID TAG PRODUCTION
THE PAYBACK TIME on a plastic film; and rewinding this
film. The cycle time is a few seconds
Material handling specialist Pesmel will showcase its latest innovation per RFID tag. Optional features
in finished tire handling and dispatching at Tire Technology Expo 2022. include a machine interface to the
The innovation is based on the fact that internal tire logistics do not need ERP system, marking of the final
palletization. In fact, storing and order picking can run more smoothly and roll and a barcode scanner and label
efficiently by taking pallets out of the equation altogether. printer. The machine is sold under
Pesmel takes the latest automated technology and applies it to the name EL.TAG.
storage and dispatch. The real secret to more efficient internal logistics For the final inspection of
is removing work phases from existing internal logistics. The storage doubled materials, especially with
operates without pallets or forklifts by using conveyors, Pesmel’s TransTire low contrasts or without contrasts
high-bay storage system and automated handling and order picking. (black on black), E+L offers the SL
Because less equipment is needed and the cost of pallets is At Tire Technology Expo 2022, 2362 triangulation sensor with two
eliminated, big savings in capital expenditure are made when it comes Erhardt+Leimer will debut a machine integrated matrix cameras and a
to investing in new internal logistics. Total savings in capital expenditure that produces high-quality RFID line laser. The sensor works with
compared with tags. The finished tags consist of the light-section method and acquires
traditional logistics two laminated rubber strips with the lateral and vertical positions
solutions can be up to an RFID chip inside. The process of the material edges on a running
US$11.5m. Furthermore, includes unwinding the rubber strip; web, including height differences.
operational and feeding the RFID chip blister; cutting In addition to final inspection, it can
maintenance costs stay the rubber strips using an ultrasonic be used for width measurement, web
well under the levels of cutter; inserting the RFID chips guiding and following up actuators
traditional warehousing between two rubber strips using a or tools. With a maximum measuring
and logistics solutions. robot, including monitoring via a 2D range of 350mm (lateral/transverse
Pesmel camera; doubling of the rubber strips; to the direction of web travel) and
Booth 9006 dimensional accuracy inspection via 40mm (vertical), the scanning
a 3D camera; RFID function check; frequency is up to 150Hz.
a pick-and-place system for accurate Erhardt+Leimer
positioning of the finished RFID tags Booth 9063
NEW DIAGNOSTIC
REGISTER ONLINE MEASURING DEVICE
NOW FOR YOUR
FREE ENTRY BADGE! At Tire Technology Expo 2022, Parker will
show two products: the Service Master
multiple connections can compile, store,
monitor and evaluate CANbus data and
www.tiretechnology-expo.com Connect is a diagnostic measuring device digital or analog sensor signals for pressure,
for mobile and stationary hydraulic temperature, volume flow frequencies,
applications. The Sentinel is a portable, rotational speeds, particles, water in oil,
fluid purification hydraulic protection unit volume and output. It can measure and
designed to ‘stand guard’ over hydraulic display up to 100 channels.
systems 24/7 and increase productivity The Sentinel takes fluid purification to a
by eliminating moisture in the oil. new level of dependability and efficiency in
The Parker Service Master Connect one affordable unit. Compact, lightweight,
has been designed to enable users tough and versatile, the portable Sentinel
to access an array of sensors used can deliver results in any environment.
in hydraulic applications like those With or without its optional laser detection
encountered in tire production. The unit particle counter, the self-contained Sentinel
has a robust design and an IP65 rating can detect water-contaminated hydraulic
that provides protection against moisture oils or transformer fluids from samples
and dirt and is also shock absorbent. taken directly from hydraulic reservoirs,
With a 7in illuminated color touch barrels, vehicles or oil storage tanks, and
display, the modular construction allows streamline the dehydration process.
customized setups according to individual Parker Hannifin
measurement and analysis needs. The unit’s Booth 7074

NEW INTERNATIONAL Speaker spotlight

NON-PROFIT Q&A
The Global Data Service Organisation During the past six years, a DR LAN JIANG
for Tyres and Automotive Components taskforce within the European Tyre and Researcher, material planning
(GDSO) is a new international non-profit Rim Technical Organisation (ETRTO) department, Sumitomo Rubber
association founded by Bridgestone, has defined the outlines of tire data Industries
Continental, Goodyear, Michelin and standards and a global technical solution
Pirelli. Currently in its launch phase, for retrieving data from participating Recyclable and self-healing
the association is looking forward to companies, based on a unique item liquid polyisoprene with reversible
welcoming new tire manufacturers identifier (UII), which will open the
as well as, in the future, other suppliers. door to new connected services.
boroxine network structure
In the framework of the automotive Members already benefit from a What is your presentation about?
digital transformation, GDSO strongly minimum viable product, offering a flavor The presentation is about a novel elastomer consisting
believes that every vehicle component of the service value proposition: tasks of a reversible network, for creating sustainable tires.
will become connected. Therefore, it solved more easily along the value chain, We focused on covalent cross-linked recyclable diene
wants to enable services based on a thanks to tire electronic identification and rubber and introduced dynamic boroxine bonds, as
global, open, standardized and secured API aimed at retrieving standardized data reversible cross-linking points, into the network. The
data platform with robust and transparent through remote execution. nitrogen-coordinated boroxines were synthesized with
governance, thus supporting a sustainable maleic anhydride/maleic acid-modified liquid polyisoprene.
GDSO The resulting elastomer is covalently cross-linked. The
and simplified mobility journey. Booth 3038 mechanical properties, recyclability and self-healing
properties of the elastomer are discussed.
Why were dynamic boroxine linkages introduced
3 Tire company into the network?
WEBSERVICE ADDRESS 4 STANDARDIZED
webservice (API)
The requirement for environmental sustainability is driving
material designs toward more circular and durable products
that are more easily repaired or recycled. As the traditional
rubbers cross-linked by sulfur cannot be reprocessed due
to the permanent network, we are trying to introduce a
reversible network into the rubber and tire. Boroxine is a
5 Central users kind of reversible covalent bond, which can be broken and
AUTHENTICATION 6 AUTHORIZATION service implemented by reformed under control. By introducing the boroxine as
each manufacturer to CONTROL tire data cross-links into the rubber or tire, we expect the products
access, depending on the USER RIGHTS to exhibit better recyclability.
1 TIRE INTERROGATED
What were the mechanical properties of the resulting

2 User APPLICATION elastomers?
Liquid polyisoprene can be turned into a solid elastomer
after it is cross-linked by boroxine. The elastomer with the
higher boroxine content exhibited higher stress at the same
IN-LINE WEIGHT INSPECTION strain. The rubbery plateau is observed in the temperature
dependence of G' between 40°C and 80°C, as well as the
OF RUNNING TREAD PROFILES tan δ increase at temperatures higher than 80°C due to
the dissociation of boroxine bonds.
The dimensionCONTROL TMWI 8302. of the measurement conveyor. These
LC system is suitable for in-line weight sensor elements are attached to a massive What were the effects of temperature and water
inspection of continuous running rubber construction, which ensures the long- on recyclability?
As boroxine is dissociated by heating, the boroxine cross-
profiles (tread pattern or sidewalls) for term mechanical stability of the system.
linked liquid polyisoprene elastomer can be reprocessed
passenger and truck tires. The measurement conveyor uses precise
at 100°C. On the other hand, water-sensitive boroxine-
Based on the force measurement and balanced aluminum rollers with based cross-links are potentially capable of reducing the
principle, the inspection system uses two special surface treatment. This ensures energy required during recycling. We have verified from
load cells that measure the deflection low deadweight, avoids the influence of the temperature dependence of dynamic moduli in the
unbalance and eliminates material sticking. presence of water that the cross-linking density decreases
Data obtained from the load cells is and the transition shifts to a lower temperature due to
processed in the implemented PLC cards, partial dissociation of the boroxine network by water.
which determine the measured weight
How can these results improve the tire industry?
mathematically. The included software
Are there practical applications?
offers a variety of measurement data
From the results of this work, we think it is possible to apply
processing, definition of design profiles, boroxine cross-links in the rubber, to design and develop
statistical analysis of measured profiles a tire that has enough mechanical strength for practical
and diagnostic tools. use, as well as being easier to repair or recycle under
Micro-Epsilon environmentally friendly stimuli – water.
Booth 3006 Please visit the website for full conference program and speaker details

DIGITALIZING THE
TIRE INDUSTRY
Digitalization is one of the main trends in tire production. Therefore,
Siemens is presenting a broad Digital Enterprise portfolio for the
whole value chain, especially for tire manufacturers and machine
builders. The digital twin of the tire, the production machines and
plants can optimize planning, make processes transparent, figure
out bottlenecks and improve productivity.
In addition to the topic of digitalization, tire manufacturers are
increasingly confronted with the issue of sustainability. What are the
starting points to make tire production more sustainable? Energy-
efficient automation and recycling are important here to conserve
resources. Transforming tire production into a circular tire ecosystem
is a major task. Siemens supports tire recycling through its digital
approach, thus contributing to more environmentally friendly tire
production. RFID technology can help reduce scrap rates during
production. Furthermore, digital simulation reduces the number
of test and pilot tire series during the development of a new tire.
Siemens
Booth 8058
REGISTER ONLINE NOW FOR

YOUR FREE ENTRY BADGE!
NEW TIRE
STORAGE MACHINE
NEW BIO-BASED
TIRE OIL
Cassioli will unveil a new tire storage machine at Tire
Technology Expo. The Cassioli Multilevel Shuttle has
been designed to store different types of materials and
products, from green tires to finished tires. The storage
Nynas recently introduced NYTEX BIO
system is made of individual mini stacker cranes with
6200, its first bio-based tire oil. Combining
reduced dimensions but high performance. These can
excellent performance in tires with increased
be stacked in the same aisle, increasing throughput.
sustainability, NYTEX BIO 6200 reinforces
In single- or double-depth automatic warehouses,
Nynas’s commitment to take sustainability
the Multilevel Shuttle operates in special storage
further without compromising on performance.
racks, presenting itself as a lightweight shuttle capable
Nynas is dedicated to the development,
of achieving better performance than traditional
production and supply of specialty naphthenic
stacker cranes for storage and recovery. Thanks to the
oils for a global market. Naphthenic tire oils
arrangement of several shuttles on top of each other,
have shown tremendous growth during the
it is possible to configure the warehouse in a flexible
last decade and are now some of the most
way; moreover, the modularity of the system allows the
established low-PAH tire oils available in
warehouse to develop according to customer needs, its
the global tire oil market. Their success has
production capacity and the type of product handled.
been based on a combination of excellent
The compact design and low weight of the machine
performance in tire rubbers, their global
contribute to making the system more dynamic, resulting
availability and their outstanding HSE
in greater productivity, high storage density, a more
properties, reflected in low PAH content
energy efficient system and low maintenance costs.
exceeding the EU REACH tire oil requirements.
Cassioli
Nynas
Booth 9062
Booth C220

NEW FLEXIBLE AUTOMATIC Speaker spotlight

WHEEL ASSEMBLY Q&A
JORGE LACAYO-PINEDA
Automatic wheel assembly has the only the most critical products and can
challenge of incorporating automation later be upgraded step-by-step to cover
Head of expert field for
materials evaluation, Continental
processes for a wide variety of products in a wider range. Standard machines are Co-authored with Thomas Rauschmann,
a logistics warehouse: imagine providing a substituted by anthropomorphic heavy- consultant, Rubber Technology and Service;
38in excavator tire and then, immediately duty robots, which guarantee quality, and Oliver Wirth, CEO, Bareiss Prüfgerätebau
after, a set of 8in light trailer tires. ICAP reliability and flexibility.
Group has a new technology to make The productivity of such a line will vary
New developments in rubber rheology
assembly lines more flexible. This concept, according to the options and the variety of by advanced RPA testing
already installed by a few customers, products, but in practice it can be pushed What is your presentation about?
allows users to create a tire assembly to 250pcs/h, reducing changeover dead The rubber process analyzer (RPA) is commonly used to
line that can potentially mount and inflate times. The current automatic line can determine the complex shear modulus and dynamic viscosity.
all dimensions of tire in a single line. mount up to 38in tires, but a new station The classical approach of calculating storage and loss moduli
with a simple trigonometric equation is only valid for linear
Modularity is the basis of this new is being tested to push this limit.
viscoelastic behavior. However, filled rubber compounds
technology, to save costs and space in the ICAP Group are highly non-linear in their rheological behavior (Payne
warehouse. The line can begin by covering Booth 4002 effect) and unfilled raw rubber becomes non-linear at higher
deformations (large amplitude oscillatory shear – LAOS). A
new type of advanced RPA testing gives access to valuable
information found in higher harmonics, steady-state
shear viscosity and non-elliptic Lissajous figures. Practical
applications are shown for polymer-filler interactions, wall
slip and polymer branching.
How does the new type of advanced RPA testing work?
New developments in RPA are extending the state of the
art to address current topics of interest in rubber technology,
like wall slip behavior, polymer branching and sustainable
fillers (recovered carbon black). Instead of oscillatory shear,
the die rotation implemented now generates shear rates
up to 500s-1, while standard RPA only allows for maximum
80s-1. The number of data points recorded per cycle has
considerably increased, thus improving the signal/noise ratio
when performing Fourier transform rheology.
What information will the new type of test reveal?
Viscosity and shear stress can now be measured in the range
of shear rate relevant for rubber production; for example,
extrusion at 500s-1. Advanced techniques in RPA give access
to non-linear rheology and related evaluation techniques.
The so-called LCB index obtained by analyzing non-elliptic
Lissajous figures describes the level of polymer branching.
The non-linearity parameter I3/1 used in Fourier transform
rheology is very accurate for quantifying polymer-filler
interaction, and therefore filler reinforcement.
What practical applications can be applied?
The new techniques are shown by the following applications:
MENTION US
1. Evaluation of raw polybutadiene regarding branching and
degradation: LCB, dynamic viscosity.
#TireTechExpo
2. Characterization of the reinforcing properties of recovered
carbon black (rCB) by quantifying the non-linearity
behavior caused by polymer-filler interaction.
3. Evaluation of the steady-state viscosity and wall slip
behavior of rubber compounds.
How can this information improve the tire industry?
Advanced characterization of rubber compounds and raw
materials, particularly of the main components represented
REGISTER ONLINE NOW FOR by polymers and fillers, contributes to a stable quality of
tires. Access to higher shear rates allows for more accurate
YOUR FREE ENTRY BADGE! materials parameters for simulation and optimization of
production processes in tire technology.
Please visit the website for full program line-up and speaker details

WE KEEP YOU MOVING.
FOR ANOTHER 25 YEARS.
There is no vehicle without a tire and wheel assembly.
Eurofit delivers the most essential part that has kept the
automotive industry moving since the very beginning.
Our passion is to combine craftsmanship and expertise
to produce the best-in-class TWA enabling customers
to rely on us to bring mobility to the world for 25 years.
eurofitgroup.com
THE VALUE OF FLEXIBILITY OPTIMIZED HEATING

With an increasing number of tire its main advantage is enhanced use
specifications to be managed, it is of automation. Changeover times are SYSTEMS TO REDUCE
challenging to maintain output when
batches get shorter and more size
shortened, with much less operator
intervention and greater use of recipe- CO2 EMISSIONS
changes have to be made at every step
of the process. This calls for flexible
driven methods. Waste is reduced,
quality is more consistent and processes DURING TIRE CURING
solutions that allow smaller production are made more efficient, resulting Customers are eager to reduce the overall energy demand per
runs with the lowest cost per tire. in increased flexibility and improved tire cured, to reduce CO2 emissions and the associated costs.
VMI’s flexible production platforms competitiveness. HF undertook research in process optimization and product
allow for straight-through production with MENTRIXX brings higher-level benchmarking to identify the most promising solutions when
minimal stops for material handling, and machine intelligence to the factory floor, it comes to equipping the curing press. Using state-of-the-art
give manufacturers the ability to build permitting central control of multiple technology such as CAE tools, laboratory testbeds to compare
precisely what the market requires. machines and offering the ability to single part performance, and on-site trials to prove the overall
REVOLUTE, designed to complement change specifications across different potential of different solutions, the company is constantly
VMI’s existing bead apexing solution, machines from a single location and, in expanding its technology overview.
speeds up production time per item future, use self-tuning algorithms based HF has just begun an exciting development of a digital
(double that of the next best-performing on historical data. This provides many solution approach for condition monitoring of tire curing
system) and reaches new levels of benefits, including more efficient use presses. With this solution approach, the company aims to
performance in other ways (higher apex of materials and increased flexibility. increase curing output by keeping the cycle times of curing
than any other system on the market, VMI Group presses stably low. HF also wants to avoid unplanned downtime
greater variety of compounds). However, Booth 8054 through targeted early warnings, technical support, repair and
maintenance measures and reduced need for spare parts.
HF TireTechGroup
Booth 8000
HARVESTING CARBON BLACK FOR REUSE

Each year more than one billion tires reach the end of “The factory we are building will be the first of many
their life, creating more than 13.5 million tons of solid commercial-scale plants. Whenever worn-out tires end up
waste. These end-of-life tires (ELTs) contain around on a scrap heap, Black Bear’s technology adds value to
25% high-quality carbon black. Instead of wasting this, that specific area,” says CEO Victor Vreeken. “Of all the
Eindhoven-based startup Black Bear Carbon has come up carbon black produced, ±70% goes into tires. Those tires
with a sustainable solution. The Dutch company harvests are available for our technology through waste streams;
the valuable materials inside tires, to be used again in new we harvest carbon black from them, which can be used
tires, technical rubber goods, plastics, inks and coatings. all over again – a circular economy for tires.”
With each installation, Black Bear Carbon saves more CO2 The new factory will produce more than 12,000
than three million trees consume annually. tons of recovered carbon black and 14,000 tons of tire
After proving the technology in a pilot-scale factory, pyrolysis oil, which can eventually be used for producing
Black Bear is now building a commercial-scale factory sustainable virgin carbon black. The plant is expected to
at the Chemelot chemical complex in Limburg, the be operational by the second half of 2023 and supplying
Netherlands. The complex has a growing community commercial quantities of rCB by early 2024.
of small and large chemical businesses, all working on Black Bear Carbon
radically changing the view of the chemical industry. Booth C407

Nordic skill and high quality
extruder preformers
“One workpiece method”
- all details are manufactured into one solid block
- no leakages between the different elements
or channels
We are able to undertake wire cutting

at up to a 60-degree cone angle
- challenging preformers from one workpiece
- all the channels are made with wire
cutting and holes are conical
- less turbulence in channels
- longer operation cycles
Innovative manufacturing
– two are one
Akatire - a patented method of
manufacturing dimensional wire guide
parts for steel belt manufacturing MANUFAC
- enables all hole sizes to be produced and coated T IVE TU
- increases the life cycle of the guide
V A
RIN
I NN O
G ME TH O D
We also manufacture parts related to wire gui-
de die, such as wire guide holders and throats.
Durable materials and nitration provide a
hard surface of 0.1-0.4 mm thickness, which
- improves the abrasion resistance of the surface
- reduces friction
- gives better fatigue strength
jips.fi
We offer you an innovative machining method
for the tyre industry!
Please contact our

International Sales
Jari Saaranen
+358 50 4722 282
[email protected]
www.akatools.fi
UPDATES TO LOGISTICS
AUTOMATION
Cimcorp will showcase the ways the manufacturing, tire building and
MENTION US
#TireTechExpo
latest evolution of its proven Dream curing, testing and palletizing and
Factory solution addresses today’s tire finished tire warehousing and shipping
plant challenges. As SKU proliferation, – can be installed and commissioned
sustainability demands and the need completely independently.
for supply chain resilience increase, The success of Dream Factory is
it has never been more important to based on the intelligent software that
optimize material flows and inventory. drives it – Cimcorp’s Manufacturing
Dream Factory has been developed Execution System (MES) and
as an end-to-end automation system Warehouse Control System (WCS)
specifically for the tire industry. – which provides total control and
Designed to ensure maximum output, real-time data for production and
traceability and flexibility in production inventory management.
with real-time quality control, Dream Tire companies with existing
Factory focuses on achieving maximum logistics automation for their
productivity from a tire plant’s most production should consider upgrading
expensive and vital equipment: the their warehousing and loading
presses. Optimized material flows from operations. Automation of the finished
raw materials through to shipping tire warehouse enables high-density
ensure that scrap, bottlenecks and storage, and automating tire packing
buffer storage are minimized. eliminates manual handling, which
Featuring intelligent gantry robots
for handling and storage, Cimcorp’s
is one of the highest costs in tire
fulfillment. Automating the vehicle
NOVEL TECHNOLOGY
technology increases production loading process ensures accuracy FOR EFFICIENCY AND
capacity through 100% availability of
materials at each process step. Being
and route-optimized loads and can
cut loading time by two-thirds. Once
MATERIAL SAVING
modular and scalable makes Dream an order notification is received, At Tire Technology Expo 2022, UTH will present its innovative TRP
Factory suitable for both greenfield the tires required are automatically Reworker based on the two-roll plasticizer (TRP) with an integrated
and brownfield sites. It also means that retrieved and loaded in a way that roll-ex gear pump. This resource-saving system is designed to
the systems at each manufacturing meets customer needs. rework unvulcanized rubber that is generated in the tire
manufacturing process. Unvulcanized rubber such as treads,
stage – raw materials warehousing, Cimcorp
sidewalls, profiles or sheets is processed in a particularly gentle and
mixing and compounding, component Booth 9036 continuous way, using an automatic process, so that these materials
can be returned to the production process.
The production of tires inevitably creates reject material. This
material should be recycled for sustainability and the economical
use of valuable resources – not least because of the high price of raw
material. In this process, the basic principles of the TRP technology
come into play, combining proven methods in rubber processing,
such as cracking, homogenizing, discharging and straining.
The system consists of three zones along the length of a roll,
which in combination give rise to a fully automated, continuous
and reproducible process.
Advantages of the TRP Reworker include reduced energy
consumption, very gentle processing of the material in the
refinement process, ensured temperature control, and the modular
structure of the system itself, which means the material can be
formed into almost any shape by an integrated roll-ex gear pump
with an optional fine strainer.
The modular concept allows customized designs and includes
modules such as slab feeders, cutters, metal detectors, weighing
REGISTER ONLINE NOW FOR equipment and various discharge dies.

UTH
Booth 4028

All in one Join us a
Tir e E x p
t
o
0 022
May 18–2 er,
, 2
,
in Ha ov
n
22
The new ZF-LUB6 TBR booth 80
test system combines
the measurement of
uniformity, dynamic
unbalance and geometry
of truck and bus tires in
one innovative system.
There are many tire test systems on the market that measure either uniformity or dynamic unbalance
independently. The innovation is to combine both of these features into a single machine. With the
new ZF-LUB6 TBR – a Final Finishing Test System for truck and bus tires – ZF Test Systems has now
also achieved this for the important truck and bus market. To meet the different global requirements
for high load traffic, the machine is capable of applying a maximum force of 63 kN load to a tire that
can be inflated to a maximum inflation pressure of 10 bars (145 PSI) for a maximum tire diameter and
width of 1.5 m and 660 mm, respectively. www.zf.com/testsystems
LASER Speaker spotlight

MEASUREMENT Q&A
SYSTEMS FREDERIC BIESSE
Senior fellow, tire physics and
Starrett-Bytewise produces laser system checks belt centering, snaking, performance modelization, Michelin
measurement systems to help tire step-off and splice. The GTU-Shaping
makers improve quality and reduce the system checks for RRO, LRO and tread Tires and the environment
impact of non-conforming processes. Its splice. The GTU-Carcass system checks
What is your presentation about?
lasers and cameras can watch processes components for overlapping splices.
It is well known that ground vehicle transportation has a
continuously, so workers don’t have to. Starrett-Bytewise introduced
[very negative] impact on the environment. As tires are a
These systems produce data that can the sheet-of-light tire geometry key part of the vehicle, Michelin has been working for
be mined to see if anything changes measurement system in 2002 as an decades to reduce the environmental footprint of its
day to day, week to week or machine alternative to fixed-point laser systems, products (radial, silica, renewable material, LLP, etc). In this
to machine so users can recognize and has sold over 4,000 sensors for use presentation, we will discuss the latest tools and methods
changes and take corrective action. in tire uniformity and balance machines. used for these reduction objectives.
The On-Line Profilometers monitor Its GEO-360 carries on the tradition
How can tires be improved to make them more
extrusion and calendering processes as the most accurate and repeatable
environmentally friendly?
so users can check Cp/Cpk for each system available. GEO-360 is available
In terms of tire performance, reduction in rolling resistance
run and alert when something goes as a retrofit package for checking is key. Michelin led the way in 1946 by introducing the first
wrong. The off-line Profilometer3D sidewall bulges and depressions. radial tire – the Michelin X – and has continued to reduce
simultaneously acquires 500 tracks The Tire360 tire geometry scanner rolling resistance ever since. The rolling resistance of today’s
of data to measure extrusions with acquires over 100 million datapoints in tires is lower than at any other point in history, and we
unprecedented resolution over a large eight seconds, which can streamline the expect continued advancement in this area. As a market,
area to verify the die design and workflow for tire geometry analysis and the development of low-abrasion tires is a little behind
extruder setup. tread wear analysis. the curve but Michelin is making progress in this area.
The Green Tire Uniformity sensors Starrett-Bytewise Another environmental aspect to consider is tire
mount on TBM drums to check every production itself. Michelin tires increasingly contain
Measurement Systems
splice on every tire. The GTU-Belt biologically produced or recycled materials such as
Booth 7060 natural rubber, bio-based resins or recycled plastic. We
are continuously working on increasing this proportion
and are therefore involved in a number of research projects,
SMALL CHEMICAL WEIGHING cooperating with startups, laboratories and universities.
Together with partner companies such as Carbios and
Color Service has designed and built a This year, Color Service will present Pyrowave, Michelin is currently researching high-tech
reliable system that guarantees 24/7 its innovation for the tire manufacturing recycling processes that give commercially available PET
repeatability, traceability and accuracy of the process, with automatic bag delivery to the plastic or packaging waste a second life as tire components.
dosing process for small chemicals for tire customer’s mixer providing a complete line This way, up to four billion PET bottles each year could be
and rubber compounding. from the creation of the bag to its delivery recycled into technical fibers for tires.
The functioning of the system is simple. to the mixer. The box containing the dosed In terms of manufacturing, Michelin aims to reduce the
First, it automatically forms EVA bags from bags coming from the small-chemicals environmental footprint of all its production sites, especially
a tubular film and prints all the information weighing system will be automatically regarding solvent and energy consumption, generated waste,
CO2 emissions and water consumption. By 2050, Michelin
on the bag according to the recipe. Second, delivered directly into the customer’s mixer.
plants are to produce in a completely climate-neutral
it quickly and simultaneously weighs all the Through transportation lines (automated manner. Michelin also intends to completely eliminate
components (stocked in storage modules robot or roller conveyor) the dosing system the use of solvents in tire production by then.
of different capacities) into sealable bags. is connected directly to the mixer, avoiding Finally, end-of-life tires are a well-known industry problem.
Next, it discharges the sealed bags the need for human intervention. Often they can be reused at racetracks and children’s play
ready to be delivered to the mixer platform The system enables increased production areas, and recycled into different rubber items, such as
or automatically to the mixers themselves. and very precise recipes with no human coasters. Michelin is looking to take a step further, with its
Lastly, all these operations and weight data error. It also allows absolute control of the recent group acquisitions of Pyrowave and Enviro. Between
are recorded by an intuitive management dust emitted during dosing, plus suction of these group companies, Michelin is forging a path to full
software. The customer obtains complete the dispersed powders. These are recovered recyclability of tires, breaking down all tire components
records and traceability of the dosing and reintroduced into the production cycle, into their original raw materials ready for reproduction. This
process for quality control, verification with obvious ecological, economic and brings Michelin closer to its commitment to make its tires
purposes and R&D. environmental safety regulations benefits. 100% sustainable by 2050.
Color Service What do you think will have the biggest impact on making
Booth 8034 transportation more environmentally friendly?
Making substantial change will require evolutions on many
levels. It is not only about recycling, long-lasting products,
larger fuel ranges or alternative power sources, but a
culmination of improvements in as many relevant areas as
possible to put our planet and its people in the best possible
position for the future.
Please visit the website for full conference program and speaker details
Innovation & quality
our daily motivation
At Münch Chemie, we operate in a challenging environment. We therefore strive to
constantly prove the quality of our work and to develop new solutions. The combination
of technological innovation and creativity is the key to our success.
Mould release agents semi-permanent & permanent

Inside lubes conventional & semi-permanent
Outside lubes
Bladder coatings
Tire mounting lubricants
Cosmetic tire paints
Tire tread marking paints
Münch Chemie International GmbH

Weinheim – Germany
www.muench-chemie.com
facebook.com/muenchchemie
Automation and Vision Systems
EL-THICKNESS
Traversing thickness measurement
 Contactless laser and Eddy Current sensor

 High precision thickness measurement
 Thickness profile with traversing sensor
 Output signal for thickness control
Erhardt+Leimer GmbH · Albert-Leimer-Platz 1 · 86391 Stadtbergen · Germany www.erhardt-leimer.com

Speaker spotlight
Q&A
DAVID SHAW
CEO, Tire Industry Research, London, TireIndustryResearch.com
Transformation of the global tire industry
What is your presentation about? trends. You might think that companies with steps; and carbon black makers will have
I can list at least a dozen dimensions of change single-digit shares of the replacement market to move away from their normal fossil fuel
in the industry at present, just off the top of are not affected by this kind of organizational feedstocks to plant-based oils or pyrolysis oils,
my head. Too often, I find that the tire industry transformation, but you would be wrong. or even use the carbon from pyrolysis processes.
works in silos. Some individuals might be Big truck fleets are at the forefront of the It is going to be really tough and will require
seeing changes in their own area without digital change. We all know that you can track fundamental changes in attitudes throughout
understanding how those changes fit into a your Amazon deliveries and Uber deliveries the whole industry. Above all, it will require
global context up and down the value chain. to the nearest few meters. That is one type of new metrics, such as lifecycle analysis, so that
As a company, we have been tracking and digitalization. Larger fleets are getting more technical performance and sustainability can
analyzing all these trends, and I wanted to digitalized in every aspect of their operations, be compared in a meaningful way.
come to Tire Technology Expo to help explain and those who serve their trucks and offer tire
some of the changes that people are seeing in services are going to have to deliver similar Where do you think the industry is heading?
their own business, and how those changes fit levels of digitalization. Where larger fleets are Digitalization will be in every aspect of the
into a wider global context. today, the smaller fleets will go tomorrow. And tire industry operation, and that means
tomorrow is a lot sooner than you might think. connectivity. Suppliers will have to connect
What changes have you seen across the In the car tire business, the proliferation with customers and share data.
world’s tire industry? of sizes and fitments means that you can’t Size proliferation will continue and
I think the critical aspect of this is that I see simply make a whole lot of tires and store even accelerate as we see more styles of
a widening divergence between the leading them somewhere in the hope that you can electric vehicle emerge onto the market.
companies – those who have been supplying get them to the retail outlet when a customer That means product planning will get even
the vehicle makers for a number of years – and requests them. You have to have digital tracking more challenging. The only solution to that
the followers, who mainly supply into the of demand and artificial intelligence-driven is to transition to a partial demand-pull
replacement market. This applies mainly to models that can make predictions about system using ultra-flexible manufacturing
car tires, but also truck tires and further into which tire sizes need to be located in which and curing systems.
speciality sectors such as agricultural, mining, warehouses; and then [you have to] have Manufacturing operations will have to
aircraft and industrial applications. rapid, flexible connections to a logistics service share data from the sales teams, and the sales
The tire makers who supply big automotive to get the high-value tires to the customers teams will send their demand-based data back
companies – global fleets as well as vehicle who want to buy them. to the factories so that the factories can make
makers – have been hearing about new the tires requested by the market, rather than
demands from their customers for a number What is the biggest driver for change? making thousands of tires that remain unsold
of years, and have had time to develop I’ve mentioned a few drivers, such as the on warehouse shelves.
strategies to respond to these new demands. expectations around digitalization and very Factories will still make 70% of their plans
At the most simplistic level, there are technical high levels of service, but another important according to the old approach of forecasting
requirements for better wear properties, better aspect is sustainability. For the upstream demand per size of tire and geography, but the
fuel economy and no compromise on grip. We materials providers, this really is the big one. other 30% will be for the highest-value tires.
all know about the pressure to increase those To move the industry to 100% renewable and Whoever has the data linked to ultra-flexible
three properties simultaneously. recycled will require a total reengineering of manufacturing capability will capture that
Beyond that, however, they are hearing the upstream value chain. very high-profit segment of the business.
about how to transform their business by Today, if you exclude natural rubber, over Materials will have to use non-fossil
making more intimate digital connections with 90% of materials used in the tire industry are feedstocks. Also, tire makers will be involved
customers. They are hearing requests for better derived from fossil fuels and are not recycled. in supporting circular materials startups.
services that help the fleets improve efficiency Less than 1% of the materials used in the tire We can also look forward to an increasingly
and help car makers improve customization, industry are part of a circular value chain. global presence by the Chinese tire makers
and of course, reduce costs at the same time. To move to 100% renewable and recycled and their suppliers.
However, it is not simply the delivery of these materials is going to be a huge challenge for If I am honest, I think this is the most
new services that matters; it is the ambition the whole industry. To make that transition, exciting time I can remember in 30 years of
and enthusiasm with which those new ways synthetic rubber makers will have to move to analyzing and interpreting the global tire
of doing business are approached. non-fossil feedstocks; steel cord makers will industry. There can be no doubt that the tire
Tire makers who mainly supply the have to use recycled materials in their wire, industry is no longer a place for people who
replacement market have missed out on these which will require much-improved purification are complacent or resist change at any level.
Please visit the website for full conference program and speaker details www.tiretechnology-expo.com

E X P O P R E V I E W | CHEMICALS AND MATERIALS
S-SBR FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES

PERMANENTLY COATED Synthos is going green with its advances rolling resistance and an excellent grip
BLADDERS
in functionalized high-molecular-weight property profile. However, the viscosity of
S-SBR for ultra-high-performance tires for the compound is often increased due to
electric vehicles. These combine wet grip the stronger interaction between polymer
To solve challenges in the production of runflat tires, Lanxess has
performance with electric vehicle range and dispersed filler aggregates. This can
developed permanently coated bladders. These specially coated
extension while addressing increased tire increase the complexity of batch-off and
bladders require no additional release agents, whether applied to
wear requirements. extrusion, as well as tire construction,
the bladder or the green tire, to ensure a smooth molding process
Approximately 60% of and can reduce tire production
in the tire press. In some cases, this enables bladder service life
a passenger car tire’s run rates. Therefore,
that can otherwise only be achieved by regular recoating of the
rolling resistance Synthos has developed
tire innerliner or the bladder.
is caused by the a new polymer-
The absence of silicone oils in these permanently coated
tread. Multi- intrinsic technology
bladders provides many advantages. Contamination with silicones
functionalized that enables
during application, and interference in the vulcanization process,
S-SBR, the low compound
are reduced. This is particularly important for the production of self-
main rubber viscosities in rubber
sealing (sealant) and noise-reduced (silent) tires as well as tires with
component of formulations, a
sensor technology. To ensure the adhesion of sealing layers, noise-
the tread, makes smooth rubber sheet
reducing foam and sensors, the inner surfaces of tires must undergo
a significant surface and good
extensive laser cleaning. When using these permanently coated
contribution to the extrusion properties
bladders, additional cleaning can be reduced or even omitted.
tire’s energy efficiency, of the rubber compound.
Permanently coated bladders can be combined with all Lanxess
grip and durability. The These new SPRINTAN
recoatings. Use in combination with unfilled inside paints or
rolling resistance of the tire grades, in combination with
semi-permanent products leads to significantly reduced recoating
can be reduced by decreasing the SYNTECA Nd-BR, offer a unique
frequency and greater savings on release agents. These permanently
hysteresis loss that occurs when the tire combination of excellent rolling resistance,
coated bladders are manufactured at different locations in a highly
contacts the road surface. This hysteresis balanced wet grip, a very good mechanical
automated process, meaning traceable high quality.
loss is mainly caused by free or unbound property profile, balanced wear and good
Lanxess polymer chain end segments and polymer processing properties. They are designed
Booth 4000 loops in the cross-linked rubber, as well as to interact with different silica loadings for
insufficiently dispersed fillers. a wide range of tire formulations.
Production of Raw materials Multi-functionalized S-SBR reduces Synthos
rubber additives Mixing
hysteresis loss, resulting in tires with low Booth C416
Batch-off Extrusion and

tread marking REGISTER ONLINE NOW FOR
Tire inspection
ANALYZING TIRE DEGRADATION
and repair Tire wear emissions represent a Early 2022 sees the launch of
Tire curing widespread and growing challenge as an organic compound profiling and
Green tire vehicles become heavier, not least due benchmarking database for tires,
to the battery weight in electric vehicles. containing tests of independently
Tire building
There is mounting evidence that tire sourced samples from more than 300
particles enter the bodies of humans tire brands and models. To achieve
and animals via air, soil and water. As an maximum separation, identification
industry, it is therefore crucial that we and quantification, the company uses
develop our understanding of the nature two-dimensional gas chromatography
and magnitude of this challenge and coupled with time-of-flight mass
work together to implement practical and spectrometry, which yields a detailed
economical solutions. chemical fingerprint for each tire.
Emissions Analytics is an Access to this unique database will
independent test house specializing in be available on corporate subscription
real-world vehicle emissions. Initially and Emissions Analytics also offers
focused on tailpipe emissions, it has confidential laboratory testing services
expanded to develop deep expertise to partners.
in vehicle interior air quality and tire Emissions Analytics
degradation measurement. Booth C618

SAFER AND MORE NEW MATERIAL

SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY USES LESS CO2 AND
The Tire Business segment of IMG,
a specialist in providing textile
for fossil fuel-based yarns – produced on
bio-based and carbon-neutral polymers. IMPROVES ROLLING
reinforcement solutions, is working to
reduce tire weight, rolling resistance
Most recently it created a resorcinol-
formaldehyde-free dipping recipe,
RESISTANCE
and noise, and enhance endurance as complying with REACH regulations CarbonX is composed of nano-sized carbon filaments that are
well as high-temperature performance. without compromising on performance. chemically connected to form a three-dimensional micron-sized
This combined and diversified product The company also has developed network. All five grades of CarbonX share the same unique
structure that makes it possible to achieve greater performance
portfolio enables tire designers to address a next-generation tire cord fabric,
and sustainability for a wide range of applications, including
trends in all tire market segments. known as HT 1H95, to guarantee
tires, thermoplastics and batteries.
The company is investing in high performance with a lighter tire, CarbonX enables tire makers to maximize fuel efficiency
R&D activities to develop new and contributing effectively to rolling and durability at the same time – an effective means of
sustainable materials and has started resistance reduction, and a breakthrough reducing CO2 emissions, TRWP and tire waste. CarbonX is
to commercialize its varied products innovation with next-generation hybrid already being used to improve the durability of commercial
to enable customers to deliver their cord structure, enabling the design of tires. However, its extraordinary structure has inspired the
sustainability goals. For example, various material combinations and cord company to see what would happen if it were used to partially
first the company developed recycled constructions to provide a tailor-made replace silica as well as carbon black in a summer PCR tire.
polyester products (rPET), based on post- solution for its customers. CarbonX will present its LCA results for a commercial
summer PCR tire using CarbonX to partially replace silica as
consumer and post-industrial wastes The main fields of application are in
well as carbon black. In this formulation, CarbonX was able
as source of rPET chip, with the Global belt and bead, carcass noise reduction
to exceed expectations and expand the conventional tire
Recycled Standard certification. and bi-elastic behavior. performance triangle by improving rolling resistance, abrasion
Next came bio-based Nylon 66 and Indorama Mobility Group (IMG) resistance and wet grip simultaneously. Key findings include
polyester – sustainable drop-in solutions Booth C414 a 24kg reduction in CO2 per tire over its lifetime, which could
help tire manufacturers strengthen their value proposition and
provide OEMs with the net savings they need to meet the latest
CO2 emission targets.
The company has announced that high-performance bicycle
SILICONE-FREE racing tires and PCR winter tires containing CarbonX will be
commercially available in 2022.
INSIDE-TIRE CarbonX
Booth C544
PAINTS
Chem-Trend has developed breakthrough
non-silicone inside-tire paint solutions that
help save customers time and money by
simplifying the additional downstream
processing required for some specific tire
applications. This new family of products that is required to remove any remaining
includes filled and unfilled inside-tire paints product residues from the innerliners of
as well as durable grades. cured tires prior to the application of the
In addition to allowing tire producers adhesive or sealant layers. This transforms
to eliminate silicone residues from the the process and opens the door to new
innerliners of their finished tires, these possibilities while providing a major
water-based inside-tire paints allow tire productivity improvement. It also ensures
manufacturers to more efficiently produce a better-quality finished tire because there
innovative tire options that improve is no abrasion of the innerliner surface
customers’ mobility.
Chem-Trend’s ready-to-use, silicone-
during the cleaning process.
All members of this new family of REGISTER ONLINE
free inside-tire paints allow tire producers
to easily perform additional downstream
non-silicone paints provide the same level
of slip as their silicone counterparts; some NOW FOR YOUR FREE
applications, such as adding layers of a
puncture sealant or adhesive to affix cavity
even provide a higher level. Thus, users
can be assured that they will not sacrifice
ENTRY BADGE!
noise-absorbing polyurethane inserts or their desired level of slip or see increased www.tiretechnology-expo.com
electronic sensors (‘smart tires’) to the curing-related defects as a consequence
innerliners of selected cured tires. of switching to non-silicone.
With Chem-Trend’s silicone-free inside- Chem-Trend
tire paints, a simple wash with water is all Booth 3010

CORD ADHESION WITHOUT NOVEL S-SBR

COBALT OR RESORCINOL TECHNOLOGIES
Due to the low adhesion tendency behavior must be taken into account in the With more focus on the environmental friendliness and
of steel bonding to rubber, adhesion development of a new adhesion system. expansion of the EV market, further improvement of rolling
promoter systems are used to improve Resorcinol or resorcinol-based resins resistance and wear resistance is needed for tire tread materials.
the functioning of tires. A common can only be used in areas with exhaust air Responding to market demands, JSR Corporation will show its
technology used for adhesion to steel cord due to the bad odor and fuming. However, three new S-SBR technologies at Tire Technology Expo 2022.
is resorcinol or resorcinol condensates resorcinol-free novolak resins such as The first new technology is high-Mw functionalized S-SBR
as resin, which is used in combination ALNOVOL PN 760 have been developed, and features functionalized S-SBR with high-molecular-weight
with a methylene donor such as HMMM which improve workplace fuming exposure branched architecture. In general, linear-type high-molecular-
(hexamethoxymethylmelamine). issues as well as compound weight functionalized S-SBR balances rolling resistance and
Both resins react in consistency and aging wear resistance but sacrifices processability due to higher
situ while mixing the properties. The next step in viscosity. JSR Corporation discovered that combining a
rubber composition. reducing environmental branched structure and new functionalization technology
The formed resin and toxicological concerns solves the processability issue while maintaining rolling
network boosts the is to eliminate resorcinol resistance and wear resistance performance.
mechanical properties and cobalt salts. These The second new technology features the hydrogenation of
of the rubber and the are under considerable SBR with uniform cross-linking and freely rotating C-C single
adhesion to the cord and regulatory pressure bonds that enhance intermolecular entanglement, leading to
the rubber matrix. The due to fundamental significant improvement in wear resistance and mechanical
use of cobalt salts in turn toxicological findings. strength. To explore applications for this technology, various
ensures an acceleration of the A highly functionalized compounding studies were conducted, which showed that
vulcanization; it also enhances the novolak resin was developed hydrogenated SBR provides excellent wear resistance even
adhesion mechanism and has a positive that provides a high cord adhesion and when blended with conventional diene polymers.
effect on aging. vulcanization speed even after aging, The third new technology is a high-strength functionalized
However, the use of such resins and without the use cobalt or resorcinol. The S-SBR that features the latest polymer architecture to improve
cobalt salts can be undesirable from newly introduced modification of the wear resistance and mechanical strength with better stress
an environmental, health and/or safety novolak allows the ‘trapping’ of ions or distribution under strain, as opposed to conventional S-SBR,
perspective. Eliminating resorcinol and electron-rich surfaces such as metals in the which shows clear stress concentration. This technology makes
cobalt from a tire compound is challenging novolak matrix, which enables increased up for the general disadvantage of conventional low-molecular-
due to the high demands on the new reactivity and adhesion after aging. weight S-SBR with functionalization.
material. Vulcanization speed, mechanical Allnex JSR
properties, adhesion to steel and aging Booth C524 Booth C216
LIQUID FARNESENE
RUBBER
Kuraray will announce the latest results of the lifecycle assessment
(LCA) and the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission index information
of liquid farnesene rubber. With liquid farnesene rubber, the
company is expanding its portfolio of liquid rubbers with a product
based on natural and renewable raw materials. Liquid farnesene
rubber contains a polymerized form of beta-farnesene, a bio-based
monomer derived from sugarcane.
Kuraray will show several new functionalized Kuraray liquid
rubber grades that improve filler dispersion (L-SBR/L-IR/L-BR).
These new grades are based on isoprene, butadiene and styrene.
They are colorless, transparent and almost odorless, with low VOCs.
Kuraray liquid rubber grades
function as reactive plasticizers.
They co-vulcanize with the REGISTER ONLINE
base rubber, which significantly
reduces migration, increases NOW FOR YOUR FREE
product life span, optimizes the
production process and improves
ENTRY BADGE!
product properties. www.tiretechnology-expo.com
Kuraray
Booth C438

Premium Technology
for top Performance
Mixing Room Upstream

• Carbon black and silica smoot handling • Oil/liquid dosing system
system to avoid fines when conveying • Automation PLC & SCADA systems
• Accurate dosing, auto-diagnosis and self-learning • Survey of existing plant with laser scanning
control systems to guarantee the batch integrity • 3D plant design
• 100% product containment by using complete • Design, concepts, FEED, etc...
dust free systems
Hall 21, Stand 8075

Hannover, Germany
May 18-19-20
Full scale testing at our Innovation Center NTE-Process www.nte-process.com

C O N F E R E N C E P R E V I E W
TIRE TECHNOLOGY
EXPO CONFERENCE
Tire Technology Expo’s prestigious conference
returns to Deutsche Messe in Hannover,
Germany, on May 18, 19 and 20
T
his year’s Tire Technology Expo
Conference will feature more than
120 expert speakers from leading
companies and institutions, including
Jaguar Land Rover, Michelin,
Continental, Bridgestone and many
more. Presentations will highlight the issues and trends
set to dominate the tire business in the future, with
plenty of opportunity for audience participation, as
well as dedicated panel discussions to ensure a lively
debate and exchange of ideas.
Leading speakers include: Jukka Antila, technical
director at UTAC; Frederic Biesse, senior fellow of
tire physics and performance modelization for
Michelin; and Jorge Lacayo-Pineda, head of expert
field for materials evaluation for Continental Reifen
Deutschland – and many more!
Tire Technology Expo Conference is one of the
year’s best networking opportunities. Stay up to date
on the latest speaker additions by visiting the website:
www.tiretechnology-expo.com 

C O N F E R E N C E P R E V I E W
Keynote
speakers
Jerome Barrand
Chair of GDSO board of directors
Michelin / GDSO
Jorge Lacayo-Pineda
Head of expert field for materials evaluation
Continental Reifen Deutschland GmbH
Hiroshi Mouri
Rubber consultant
X-Bridgestone Americas Research
120+
SPEAKERS
Matthias Wangenheim
REGISTER FOR Assistant director
Leibniz University of Hannover
YOUR PLACE Please visit the website for full program
NOW! line-up and speaker details
www.tiretechnology-expo.com www.tiretechnology-expo.com

V R E D E S T E I N I N I N D I A
Market
tradersAs Vredestein launches in India, TTi speaks to the

premium tire brand’s CTO, Daniele Lorenzetti, about
the challenges and opportunities in the new market
By MARK SMYTH Images VREDESTEIN
M
anufacturer Apollo Tyres decided the
time was right to launch Vredestein
premium tires for cars and motorbikes
in India in 2021. It’s a move that
acknowledges not just the desire for
premium vehicles in the market, but
premium tires and other aftermarket components too.
Vredestein was established in the Netherlands in
1909, and was purchased 100 years later by the Indian
tire maker. Now Apollo has not only embarked on selling
the Vredestein brand in India, but Vredestein tires will
also be manufactured for the Indian market at Apollo’s
existing plants.
“India has been witnessing a high growth in
the premium and luxury segment of cars, and also
in the superbiking segment,” explains Neeraj Kanwar,
vice chairman and managing director of Apollo Tyres.
“This has prompted us to introduce this 100+ year-old
brand, Vredestein, for our Indian customers. I am
confident that with Vredestein, a domestic international
brand, we will become the dominant player in the luxury
segment in India.”
New markets
The market for luxury vehicles has expanded significantly
in India in recent years, but it is not the only factor in the

“
Our research and
development
teams have customized
these tires to provide
the best safety and
driving experience
for Indian conditions”
Daniele Lorenzetti, chief technology officer, Vredestein

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United States | China | United Kingdom > TECHNICAL CONSULTING
decision to launch Vredestein, says Daniele Lorenzetti,

chief technology officer at the company.
“The import restrictions recently imposed by the
Indian government on tires had made a strong business
case for us to bring the Vredestein brand into India for
high-end cars and motorcycles,” he says. “The introduction
of the Vredestein brand has definitely strengthened
our offering in the passenger vehicle and two-wheeler
segments in India. Our research and development teams
have customized these tires to provide the best safety and
driving experience for Indian conditions.”
The decision to introduce the new brand triggered
an in-depth market research campaign to understand
the needs of customers. The tire maker then called on
the experience of experts at Vredestein’s two global R&D
centers in Europe and Asia to ensure the products were
suitable for Indian road conditions.
“The asymmetric products in the passenger vehicle
“
segment are tailor-made to meet Indian application needs
Import restrictions
on tires had made
a strong business case
for us to bring Vredestein Above: Apollo expects
Vredestein Ultrac
and customer expectations without losing the best of
European performance flavor,” says Lorenzetti. “Vredestein
into India for high-end
Vorti tires to cater
to premium sedans tires have been launched in India after in-depth materials
from OEMs such as development and construction reengineering, using the
cars and motorcycles” Mercedes, BMW, Audi,
Land Rover and Volvo
Below: Two-wheeler
best of process technology and aggressive testing for years
at European and Indian tracks.”
Daniele Lorenzetti, chief technology officer, Vredestein tires from the Centauro
NS and ST ranges will
The tires have been customized to meet the
cover sport touring and expectations of Indian customers, he continues, which
super sports bikes include: “Superior braking, handling and comfort without
compromising on durability and mileage.
“As the superbike segment is highly driven by
performance and requires products to perform on
par with global products available in the country, the
motorcycle tires that we have introduced are based
on leading-edge technology to cater to motorcycling
enthusiasts in the country.”
As part of the R&D program, the tires were subjected
to extensive testing in Europe and India.
“For the passenger vehicle segment, indoor tests such
as footprint pressure mapping, high-speed durability,
force optimization, NVH, fuel efficiency and many more
were conducted to meet stringent internal acceptance
criteria, along with outdoor track testing,” says Lorenzetti.
“For the two-wheeler segment, dry and wet handling in
extreme speeds, dry and wet braking, mileage and tread-
chunking evaluation was carried out, in addition to field
evaluation on multiple terrains and climatic conditions
to ensure high-speed stability.”
Product provision
Following the research and testing programs, Apollo has
decided to offer the Ultrac Vorti tires for the passenger
segment, with W/Y speed ratings and sizes ranging from

 BY THE NUMBERS
Ultrac Vorti will be available
in sizes ranging from
17in to 20in
rim diameters, and with
section widths from
207 to 275mm
Further Ultrac tires
will be offered with
17in to 20in rim diameters, and with section widths Above: Switching a V speed rating between
15in and 17in

Indian manufacturing
between 207mm and 275mm. In addition, there will be facilities to Vredestein
Ultrac tires with a V speed rating between 15in and 17in. tires required some
changes, but factory
Apollo already offers tires for the very popular production lines are
sub-500cc segments of the motorcycle market, but well established
with Vredestein’s range, its product offering can “Our state-of-the-art facilities have been producing
now expand to larger capacity bikes from 600cc and up. tires for all the advanced automotive markets across
“The Centauro ST and Centauro NS tires bring a fresh the world. We have even been producing Vredestein
attitude to the biking segment in India, primarily tires in India since 2019 and have been exporting them
targeting superbike enthusiasts who are driven by to different markets.
performance and technology,” says Lorenzetti. “Our manufacturing facilities in India, with precise
“The Centauro ST is targeted toward sport touring process controls and advanced automation, are highly
applications, while the Centauro NS has a racing- equipped to obtain top-notch uniformity and consistency
inspired design and offers race-like handling and leaning in the overall product performance. The usage of high-
capabilities. Both have been introduced in multiple sizes, performance compounds enriched with high silica and
covering most of the superbikes available in India.” high resin content required us to focus on specialized
mixing capabilities, especially for the superbike segment.
Building work We leveraged the leading-edge technology installed in
Manufacturing the tires in India has required some our two-wheeler radial plant to enhance our two-wheeler
production changes, but Lorenzetti explains that some tire performance.”
“
Vredestein tires have been in production for several years. The company is confident the new tire range will
appeal to owners of popular performance bike brands
We have been producing

such as Aprilia, BMW, Ducati, Honda, Triumph and Suzuki.
There are also plans to take things beyond the current
Vredestein tires in India aftermarket plan, including the possibility of a network

of Vredestein sales outlets. The tire maker has recently
since 2019, exporting them moved into OE fitment in Europe for passenger car
manufacturers such as Audi, Ford, SEAT and Volkswagen.
to different markets” Not surprisingly, Apollo sees a progression from this to
provision of Vredestein tires as OE fitments for major
Daniele Lorenzetti, chief technology officer, Vredestein auto manufacturers in India too. 

TECHNOLOGY • Turret solution
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empower your product validation and quality

E X T R E M E E
ROUGHFor Season 2 of the Extreme E all-electric racing

series, Continental selected raw materials that ensure
the tires are as green as the vehicles they carry
By RACHEL EVANS Images CONTINENTAL, EXTREME E

E X T R E M E E
A N D R E A DY
E X T R E M E E
F
ive rounds of off-road racing in electric SUVs
on some of the world’s most unforgiving
terrains: from the outset, the appeal of
Extreme E was obvious to Continental.
A prime impetus of the motorsport
championship has been to advocate
sustainable technology and processes relevant to road
vehicles. However, designing tires capable of handling
a range of surfaces including tarmac, gravel, dirt, sharp
rocks and sand is a challenge, especially when the car has
400kW maximum power (550hp) and 920Nm of torque.
Furthermore, as sustainability is the nucleus of the series,
a single tire specification is used for all races, increasing
the pressure on tire supplier to the championship, Conti.
Tension at the beginning of the debut season, which
ran from April to December 2021, was therefore high.
According to Catarina Silva, product management team
leader for the Extreme E CrossContact tire developed
exclusively for the racing series, “At the start, there
was a significant amount of adrenaline and stress, even
during the pre-test. Until we were racing, we were not
sure. The first race in Saudi Arabia was especially intense.
Looking back, I would not change anything though.”
Across the inaugural five rounds, the engineering
team had the opportunity to test the tire to its limits
in a range of conditions and scenarios. These included
desert in Saudi Arabia, a technically challenging circuit
in Senegal, gravel and sharp rocky surfaces in Greenland,
wet roads in Italy, and dense mud and clay in the UK
(see E Numbers, March 2020, p29* for more details
on the Season 1 variant).
Better by design
From a performance perspective, despite initial nerves
about the difficulty of some of the circuits, the Season 1
CrossContact Extreme E tire was hailed an immense
success. Therefore, the pattern and basic construction
have been carried over to this season, which began with
the first race in Neom, Saudi Arabia, on February 19. The
size, diameter and width remain the same. However, a
significant change for the second-generation variant is
 SEASON 2 (2022)
CALENDAR
May 7-8: Sardinia, Italy

July 9-10: Scotland or Senegal
September 10-11: Antofagasta, Chile
November 26-27: Punta del Este, Uruguay

E X T R E M E E
Each tire
contains
recycled polyester  AGILE MIND
made from around
60 The outbreak of Covid-19 in early 2020 forced Conti to

adjust its development plans for the first-generation tire
reprocessed
PET bottles Initial design sketches for the CrossContact Extreme E tire were done
in late 2019, before the pandemic hit. However, several members of
the Conti R&D team were furloughed at the start of Covid-19, reducing
development resources and shortening the schedule.
The delay in proceedings greatly affected the physical test portion
of the program. Engineers had to lean heavily on simulation – for which
they utilized conventional methods – but had little opportunity to prove
that the technologies worked or tweak them. Ultimately, with no time
to do development testing in the real world, they had to harness their
engineering judgment to finalize the CrossContact package virtually.
“Basic performance we would never question; it was additional
performance [criteria] that was the crux. We couldn’t do as much as we
would have liked with the final vehicle specification – to test endurance,
the grip and the feeling of the tire with the car,” says Conti’s Catarina Silva.
Following an outstanding championship launch, the team at Conti felt
more relaxed ahead of the second season, and by the last race of Season 1,
the first batch of CrossContacts for Season 2 had already been produced.
“
the incorporation of completely new, sustainable
raw materials, which support the championship’s
Above: Continental
specialists from If you can apply green philosophy. The new tire features a redesigned
tread compound and carcass. It is made from around
sustainability
the USA who have
experience in Baja
and NASCAR racing, one-third recycled and renewable raw materials,
and recyclability including silica obtained from the ash of rice husks.
as well as extensive
4x4 development
knowledge, have
In addition to reprocessed steel and carbon black,
helped to develop
the CrossContact in such an extreme Continental has incorporated polyester yarn made
from recycled PET bottles in the carcass. Thanks
application, then you
Extreme E tire
Left: The second to the application of plastic bottles, which wouldn’t
season of Extreme E otherwise be reused, conventional polyester has been
got underway in Saudi
Arabia in February 2022 can be confident you fully substituted in the CrossContact Extreme E. These
old PET bottles can be used without any intermediate
can bring them into chemical steps, employing ContiRe.Tex technology.
the daily business”

Each tire contains recycled polyester made from
around 60 reprocessed PET bottles.
The tire maker says it will integrate this new
technology into various mass-production products
later this year.
Silva explains Conti’s decision to go for totally
different materials for the second-generation tire:
“The first season was about checking we could do it –

E X T R E M E E
“
We knew
we wanted
at least the same
performance as
the Season 1 tire,
but we wanted it to
be more sustainable”
With only one tire

performance-, endurance- and logistics-wise. Once we the vehicles they choose. According to Silva, there specification for a full
had reached that confidence, we were able to look at has also been a seismic shift within the tire industry, racing season, strategy
plays a large role
what we could do next. We knew we wanted to achieve driven by the automotive sector. in closing up those
at least the same performance as the Season 1 tire, but “In the tire industry we laid back and saw the all-important time
margins, so each team
we wanted it to be more sustainable to fit the purpose automotive industry coming under pressure [with has its own approach
of the championship.” e-mobility]. Our processes are well established and we to tire pressures
In another nod to sustainability, the tire allocation believed we needed to focus on performance. However,
has been cut, based on knowledge gained during the the [automotive] industry has realized that the tires
inaugural season; just 30 tires will be supplied to each account for a good portion of the CO2 and noise emissions
team across the season. Furthermore, all used tires of a vehicle. As such, in the last one to two years, I would
will be shipped back to Conti’s production facility in say, we have learned that we cannot go that far without
Hannover, Germany, where they will be treated, converted taking this need [for sustainability] into account.”
and applied in a social project. The remaining volume will Silva believes that in an increasingly crowded market,
be used for R&D investigations of issues like retreading. one key way for premium manufacturers such as Conti to
When it comes to the Extreme E tires, there is a distinct differentiate their products from competitors’ – including
racing-to-road transfer. As Silva says, if something works cheaper import tires – is to offer more sustainable options.
in these harsh conditions, it can be fed into production. It’s a joint effort, and Continental continues to work with
With regard to tire development, she confirms that its partners to find environmentally friendly solutions.
durability, sustainability and recyclability are the three Broadly, the OEM’s approach is twofold: addressing the
areas that will benefit directly from Extreme E. materials themselves and refining development and
“We’re focusing on a mixture of sustainability and manufacturing methods.
recyclability – if you can apply these two things in such “The expectation of a brand such as Conti is that
an extreme application, then you can be confident you we are sustainable already. However, for a company
can bring them into the daily business. It’s the perfect of Conti’s scale, this is super hard. Production is still a
pitch for us to test them to their limit.” relatively manual and dirty process, and to change this
manufacturing landscape as well as the supply chain and
Green outlook logistics into a more sustainable one, that takes years.
Over the past two years, the importance – not to mention It’s about the balance between cost of production, raw
the awareness – of climate change has grown. As a result, materials and performance – this is what we want to
consumer attitudes toward mobility have altered and prove out in the second series of Extreme E,” says Silva. 
people are more conscious about the form of travel and *Visit our website to access our archive of back issues

tire
technology
No pallets. EXPO 2022
Half the
booth 9006
paypack time.
Integrated tire logistics with automated
storing, picking and handling.
Pesmel – The Material Flow How® company

pesmel.com
P R O D U C T S A N D S E R V I C E S
TURRET TECHNOLOGY
ON PRODUCTION LINES
Automation of processes that are integral to tire manufacturing is a key step
in the development of plants operating in line with Industry 4.0 concepts
T
urret technology provides the flexible processes to produce perfect Above left: Mondon’s In recent years, the company has
ability to perform an automatic tires. The company builds machines to FSP-25 system with installed numerous automatic spooling
robotic functionality
roll change without stopping ensure high levels of automation and the lines in tire manufacturing plants in
Above right:
the tire production line and flexibility to adapt to those processes. Its Automatic spooling Europe, Central America, North America
without the intervention of an operator. mini-slitter with fully automatic spooling units in place on a and Asia, and a new installation will take
French company Mondon, which designs lines offers turnkey solutions for tire production line place in 2022. Customers are interested
and manufactures machines for the tire manufacturers, with the ability to change in cutting-edge technology, and
and rubber industry, has been offering from 1 to 30 spooling heads in 15 seconds. acknowledge that Industry 4.0 is
in-line solutions since 1983. A leader in The units are fully digital, including an fundamental to factory management.
automatic roll changes via the use of accurate tension control, and are delivered The spooling line is keeping up
turret technology, Mondon continues to with the proper interface. Mondon’s fully with the changes in tire design and
innovate, improve and update its range automatic spooling units can be connected manufacturing. Mondon’s range of
of machines dedicated to hot and cold with either mini-slitter or cap strip lines. machinery has been designed to
tire preparation. The company operates They are equipped with a dedicated satisfy all regulatory demands in terms
worldwide, developing cutting-edge tire interface with a self-operating HMI. of ergonomics and safety. The company
and rubber converting machines thanks to The automation of production also has a team available to assist
its extensive expertise in tension control lines is the first step toward Industry customers with the automation of their
and automation. 4.0 technology for tire plants. Tire tire preparation areas through careful
Mondon introduced turret technology manufacturing includes many manual analysis and creative technology.
to the tire industry 12 years ago, with the operations that don’t guarantee the Mondon will be at Tire Technology
aim of increasing the productivity and traceability and the regularity of the Expo in May 2022, and is looking forward
efficiency of tire plants. Turret technology process. Thanks to the automation of to meeting visitors at Booth 9067. 
simplifies the utilization of machines, production machines, Mondon can provide
increases productivity and safety and
reduces labor costs.
The Mondon experts understand that
quality control and material identification
at the machine output. The information is
transferred to the Manufacturing Execution
001 Free reader
inquiry service
To learn more about Mondon, visit:
production teams must follow and adopt System (MES) for analysis and treatment. www.ukimediaevents.com/info/ttm

ITT - tire testing with Shearography
2021年6月 TTI-P-PRO2.pdf 1 2021/6/3 15:49:19
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
PRODUCTION MACHINERY
READY FOR INDUSTRY 4.0
Research and development into enhancing productivity, automation and customer support is
the foundation for providing tire production lines that are equipped for current and future demands
P
roductivity, support and Right: Calemard’s Gum
Tape Line technology
automation are three areas in in place on a tire
which customers have come to production line
value Spoolex and its Calemard
machinery brand. Spoolex has developed
a comprehensive vision of this new
industrial era and is focusing on three
critical issues: how to boost productivity,
how to assist customers in every situation
and how to support customers with their
Industry 4.0 projects.
Like all machine manufacturers,
Spoolex offers different options,
accessories, retrofits and upgrades to
boost operator safety and productivity.
With over 40 years in the tire industry,
the French company is very familiar with
the different production processes. Based
on this expertise, Spoolex’s engineering
department has recently developed and
patented fully automated cells to boost
productivity, whatever the process.
For a non-stop process, the company
offers compact and easy to use in-line
solutions to produce high-quality pads
or spools directly from the calendering of slitter rewinders. Based on the Aquirion takes advantage of its well-equipped
line. Installed in-line, the solution includes complete cell, Orion equipment can be test laboratory to set up trials and assess
liner insertion with automatic splicing unit, equipped with a gantry for automatic process feasibility.
accumulator, loop tension control, in-line pad unloading, transfer and loading From the beginning of the Industry 4.0
slitter (crush, shear, floating or fixed razor onto Calemard’s Aquila spooling line. revolution, Spoolex has been developing
blades), turret rewinder or continuous Recent years have highlighted some ways to simply integrate its machines’ data
spooling with automatic secondary rolls of the difficulties that companies can collection and treatment with customers’
or spools change. Final pads or spools are face when supporting their customers. manufacturing execution systems (MES).
automatically unloaded – without the need Spoolex aims to support its partners, It quickly invested in structuring its
to stop the machine – making the entire whatever the situation. The company’s services and recruiting qualified staff.
process completely safe and independent customer care center assists remotely or Today, Spoolex can study specific MES
from the operator. on-site with equipment commissioning projects and offer complete adapted
On the other hand, to optimize cap and startup, operator training, machine solutions. The next step will see further
strip production, Spoolex offers a complete optimization and productivity, as well investment in R&D to prepare new
converting cell including fully automated as with spare parts, retrofit and repair solutions for future Industry 4.0 needs.
handling between wide slitter and spooling needs. The company’s quality assistance More information will be revealed soon.
line. The patented Aquirion has been is appreciated by customers not only due Tire production process expertise and
designed to increase production speed to the after-sales service, but also for the a skilled, dedicated team enable Spoolex
and efficiency by limiting operator closed upstream technical cooperation. An to differentiate itself from ‘simple’ machine
handling and avoiding intermediate integrated engineering department works manufacturers. The company’s Cyrille
storage. This highly automated, flexible in cooperation with customer engineers Pontet and Christian Montusclat will be
solution can be adapted to match to support their projects. This can include at Tire Technology Expo, meeting visitors
application needs and thus evolve with supporting customers with choosing the at Booth 7038.
plant tire production capacity increases. most suitable technological solutions,
Many of the company’s new, patented
solutions can be retrofitted on existing
Calemard machines. For example, the new
with adapting existing equipment, or
with developing specific solutions. To
define the most cost-effective standard
002 Free reader
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unwinder can be installed on the Orion line or specific configuration, Spoolex also www.ukimediaevents.com/info/ttm

COMPEO
Continuous compounding
technology for rubber compounds
Join us
Tire Technology Expo
May 18 – 20, 2022
Hall 21 Booth 9053
More Precision
Measurement and
inspection systems
Preparation area
Profilometers (traversing, sheet of light, inline, offline)
Gauges (thickness, length, width and weight)
Color coding and inspection
Final finishing / Tire wheel assembly

Tire geometry inspection
Letter inspection
Tire mark inspection Uniquely efficient. Incredibly versatile. Amazingly
Retrofit of TU-, TG- and Balancer lines flexible. With its COMPEO Kneader series, BUSS offers
compounding solutions that set the standard for heat-
and shear-sensitive applications, in all industries,
including for rubber compounds.
• Extremely short processing time

• Moderate, uniform shear rates
• Significantly lower product temperatures
• Precise temperature control
• Narrow residence time distribution
www.busscorp.com
Contact our application engineers:

Phone +49 8542 1680
micro-epsilon.com
buss_anzeige_tire-technology-magazine_107x275mm_2022-02-18_v03_ks.indd 1 18.02.2022 08:27:14

TIRE-WHEEL ASSEMBLY
simulates the weight of the car with tire
deformation under real driving air pressure
at 120km/h. A maximum cycle time of
INSPECTION TECHNOLOGY
24 seconds is respected.
Benchmark tests were performed with
customers and tire makers. Both groups
were extremely interested in the results,
The advantages of offering high-speed tire uniformity which enabled them to detect higher-level
measurement on OEM wheel production lines include vibrations in wheels on production lines.
HSTU technology is well known
a high level of quality control for this vital component within R&D departments. However, these
installations are not meant to operate in
conditions like those in an automotive
T
he importance of reducing due to increasing driver expectations – Above: Eurofit’s Tier 1 production environment.
vibration and noise from the for the most part, this could be linked high-speed testing This new HSTU process eliminates
technology can assess
wheels of hybrid and electric to vibrations and sound in cars with tire uniformity on the wheels with a high potential of vibration
vehicles continues to increase. bigger wheels. production line, and force – those that would not be rejected by
Drivers expect a smooth, quiet drive. Extra processes were implemented: is ideally suited for a low-speed tire uniformity and imbalance
Tier 1 environments
Wheels are a source of vibration that matching, bead seat optimization, low- process. A new, important force is recorded
is linked to imbalance and tire uniformity. speed tire uniformity, run-out and audit due to friction with the drum (similar to
Since 2019, Eurofit’s High-Speed Tire balancing measurements. Component road conditions) – the tangential force,
Uniformity (HSTU) machines have performance began to improve but Eurofit which can have an important influence on
been implemented on the company’s feedback from some customers continued comfort and driving friction on the road.
industrial assembly lines to ensure to highlight a lack of driver satisfaction Due to an increase in larger wheel
optimal performance in terms of noise with specific high-performance cars. sizes, a new generation of tires for
and vibrations. The HSTU process makes A theoretical force vector model hybrid and electric vehicles and high
it possible to achieve results beyond those was developed to understand the missing expectations from customers, vibration
that can be realized on a standard OEM parameter: vibration force at high speed. and noise from tires have become more
wheel assembly line. The only way to reduce this vibration important. The production HSTU process
Approximately 30 years ago, the force (which is the vectorial sum of the is an important filter for selecting wheels
tire-wheel assembly was part of the imbalance force vector and first harmonic with lower levels of vibrations, and with
car manufacturing process. From the TU uniformity force vector) is to perform sound performance to satisfy drivers of
mid-1990s, there was a rise in the measurements at high speed. the next generation of cars.
outsourcing of tire-wheel assembly Based on this, Eurofit worked with
activity, driven by an increase in
variants, sizes and space optimization.
Basic assembly processes were
an industrial partner to develop an HSTU
machine. A special clamp adapter (patent
pending) was manufactured to reproduce
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INTERMESHING MIXERS
IN TIRE PRODUCTION
Intermeshing mixers are well suited to the high-silica
compounds used for tires that offer low rolling resistance,
and can replace existing tangential mixer technology
S
ince the Paris Climate Agreement is the same as the tangential mixer. Thus, Right: Intermeshing
was adopted in 2015, countries the existing gear reducer can be kept if mixer technology
is well suited to
have been making efforts to the same speed is required. The motor production lines
reduce global warming. More capacity to run the BB-270IM is 1,260kW for building tires with
than 120 countries and regions have set (at rotor speed of 60rpm). To run the low rolling resistance
a goal of being carbon neutral by 2050, BB-430IM (also at 60rpm) is 2,220kW.
and tire manufacturers have been making If the motor capacity of the existing
efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions tangential mixer is equal to or larger
in their factories and facilities. These than this, there is no need to change
companies have also been developing the existing motor. Some chamfering
new renewable raw materials for tire cuts at the mezzanine opening will be
rubber. The tires that use these can play required when changing the tangential
a key role in reducing vehicle carbon mixer for the BB-270IM or BB-430IM,
dioxide emissions. Global demand for but this is not a major modification.
low rolling resistance tires continues to In addition, these intermeshing mixers
grow as a part of this drive. As a result, the can replace tangential mixers made by
demand for mixers suitable for high-silica suppliers other than Kobelco, if certain
mixing is also increasing – as silica is now specifications and conditions are met.
largely used in rubber compounding for The BB-270IM and BB-430IM are
low rolling resistance tires. equipped with the KIR-II intermeshing
Using silica compounds instead of rotor, which Kobelco has continually
carbon compounds is key to reducing improved since its introduction in 1990.
rolling resistance. However, there The KIR-II has four main features: good
are difficulties in the mixing of silica intake performance, high distribution
compounds, such as the need to maintain performance, high energy input and high
a certain temperature during mixing – to cooling performance.
generate chemical reactions with coupling In modern mixing, there is a growing
agents. Intermeshing mixers suit high- need for technologies that can address
silica mixing, while tangential mixers often new types of improved polymers and
face difficulty in meeting the required additives. Kobelco’s high-performance, Below: Specific
quality for silica mixing. Therefore, there economical solutions can provide the gravity of compound
is a need to replace existing tangential solution and help improve manufacturing is 1.1. Fill factor is
65%. This technical
mixers with intermeshing mixers. The in tire and rubber factories. data is for reference
problem here is the initial cost, because it
is necessary to replace not only the mixer
but also the main motor and gear reducer. Model BB-270IM BB-430IM
In addition, foundations must be partly
modified or changed completely. Rotor type KIR-II KIR-II
Kobelco proposes an intermeshing
mixer that can replace the tangential mixer Net chamber volume 242 liters 428 liters
as a solution to reduce the initial cost
of replacement. The Kobelco BB-270IM Nominal batch capacity 173kg 306kg
and BB-430IM intermeshing mixers can
replace 270-liter, 370-liter and 430-liter
tangential mixers with minimum labor
and expenditure. These intermeshing
Rotor speed
Required motor power

60rpm
1,260kW
60rpm
2,220kW
004 Free reader
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mixers offer a rotor center distance that www.ukimediaevents.com/info/ttm

WWW.COLORSERVICE.NET
HOW WE MAKE
THE DIFFERENCE
HIGH ACCURACY
AUTOMATIC CREATION AND
1
LABELLING OF THE BAG
REPEATABILITY
2 PRODUCTS DOSING PHASE

TRACEABILITY
3 AUTOMATIC BAG’S EXTRACTING
DOSED BAG’S DELIVERY TO INDUSTRY 4.0

4 CUSTOMER’S BOX OR DIRECTLY TO
CUSTOMER’S MIXER
GREEN
Company with
management system
Nr. 50 100 15551 certified
by TUV Italia Srl
according to UNI EN
ISO 9001:2015
Belting Solutions for the Tyre Industry
Keep your business run efficiently and choose Ammeraal Beltech as first partner of choice.
With a unique product portfolio of fabric based Conveyor Belts, a complete range of uni Plastic Modular
Belts and special Timing Belts, we can provide you with the right belting solutions for your manufacturing
processes.
Innovation and Service in Belting

www.ammeraalbeltech.com
2202_Tyre trend adv.indd 1 15/02/2022 09:10:14

 THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE TREND BOOSTS TIRE SUSTAINABILITY

Increasing uptake of electric vehicles has led to an associated interest in new materials and compounds
The growth of the EV market Left: Electric vehicle
means a pervasive transformation convoy testing alongside
the ICE version of
of the tire development landscape. the same model. This
At Black Donuts, the ‘EV impact’ is research explores the
present everywhere, from the tire differences in tire wear
in winter conditions
designers’ desks to the introduction
of new tools for faster development
of sustainable, futureproof tires.
Black Donuts has undertaken
systematic research on EV tires
since the first electric vehicles
entered the market. The pioneering
projects addressed the primary
technological challenges: rolling
resistance and noise. Lately, the Reducing rolling resistance has rolling resistance and durability. convoy tests with EV and ICE
focus has shifted toward more long been a prevailing trend in tire The first results show the latest models of the same brand to
comprehensive sustainability. development, and the EV uptake polymer types – together with evaluate the difference in tire
The EV trend has increased has given it an extra boost due advanced silica-silane technology, wear in winter conditions.
demand for bio-based materials to the significantly higher impact additives and mixing technologies Although modern tire
and better recyclability. Black of rolling resistance on the total – can help improve both contrary technology can address the key
Donuts is investigating new energy economy of the vehicle. qualities and increase the range. features of EVs, the single most
possibilities to replace fossil-fuel- Lower rolling resistance contributes The EV trend has caused an important factor affecting tire
based raw materials with bio-based to the EV’s overall sustainability. It increase in vehicle weight due wear, performance and safety
or renewable materials in all is also one of the few tire properties to heavy batteries, making an is not under the car but behind
products, including studded tires. that creates clear value for the electric vehicle generally 10-20% the wheel. The driver is still the
The company is currently testing driver: increasing the range. heavier than an equivalent-sized primary source of variation.
the use of bio-based plastics in At Black Donuts, research on ICE vehicle. While extra weight
stud bodies, and is also carrying
out research on end-of-life tires and
new materials and compounds
plays an extremely key role in EV
places additional strain on the tires,
so does the high instant torque, 005 Free reader
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how they can be recirculated and tire development. The target is to leading to higher tire wear. Black
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recycled back into the process. avoid compromising key properties: Donuts is currently conducting
 DYNAMIC CHARACTERIZATIONS FOR MODEL GENERATION

Sophisticated testing equipment and extensive expertise result in robust, accurate data for use in modeling
British statistician George E P model space revolve around steady-state behavior. However, between outdoor and indoor
Box said, “Essentially, all models which model to select. One must more advanced equipment is performance characterizations,
are wrong, but some are useful.” first identify how the tire model needed to capture the transient neglecting surface conditions.
Virtual development has taken its will be used in the vehicle behavior with respect to force In fact, customers can input a
place at the forefront of the vehicle simulation, then determine the capabilities, positioning rates drive file from real or simulated
development process at the design, accuracy of the chosen model, and data acquisition rates. vehicle data to the LTRe, which can
test and validation stages. Once and whether the company feels the GCAPS’ LTRe was designed enable model prediction validation
a manufacturer has identified a cost justifies the benefits. for this purpose and offers force and comparison with outdoor
vehicle’s DNA – the performance Models are becoming more and moment data to characterize performance. GCAPS completes
characteristics synonymous with its robust, offering advanced solvers both steady-state and transient testing and modeling in-house,
brand – the established standards to reduce computational time, with behavior. With 5DOF and utilizing its thorough knowledge
must be maintained. These acute precision in modeling steady- unmatched positioning rates, of tire characterization methods
standards depend on the accuracy state and transient tire responses. GCAPS is capable of testing to to improve procedures, which
of virtual reconstructions and Identifying the correct tire model satisfy current commercial models. translates to higher-fidelity models
predictions of physical specimens for the application is only one part In addition, the LTRe’s powerful than competitors, at a lower cost.
006
and their performance. Tire models of the equation, however. The other electric spindle and drive motors
are essential in this process, as they is determining which test bench can achieve high levels of torque
Free reader
are the vehicle’s primary method to use for the physical testing. that match motor output from
inquiry service
To learn more about GCAPS, visit:
of communication with the road. Basic drum and Flat-belt test rigs current electric vehicles. This
Common questions in the tire can perform procedures to model provides a seamless comparison

 SPRING VENT TIRE IMPRINT WITH APPLIED ANTI-GLOSS DESIGN

Adding design imprints to spring vent production can make identification easier and improve finished surface quality
A patented solution developed spring vent head on the tire.
by GACZ (Gottschol Alcuilux CZ) It is known how well rubber
is suitable for creating designs in copies a mold’s surface. As
the spring vent head area. There the mold and spring vent
are two practical reasons why this are made of different materials,
can be useful. with different surface machining,
The first is product identification. both cause different imprints on
Different spring vents can be the tire. GACZ’s solution is to
combined in one mold, so marking unify the roughness of the
each type is the only way to ensure spring vent head with the
recognition. This identification must roughness of the mold. This
be performed on the spring vent can be achieved by creating
head, as this is the only part visible any pattern – for example, a
after vent installation, and creates spiral – on the spring vent head.
the tire imprint. Subsequently, Because of the turning technology
thanks to this vent identification, used for spring vent production,
maintenance for each different only rotary shapes can be created. the spring vent head area creates other operations during turning,
spring vent type can be performed, A dimple or circle can a dimple or groove in the tire. so does not lead to production
the performance of different spring be created for spring vent GACZ can produce different time increases.
vent types can be evaluated and identification. Any shape shapes with different dimensions
vents that have already been
replaced can be recognized.
The second reason is to
submerged into the spring
vent causes the same shape to
emerge above the tire’s surface,
for such identification marking,
without incurring excessive costs
in production. This operation can
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eliminate the glossy imprint of the and vice versa: a shape above be performed simultaneously with www.ukimediaevents.com/info/ttm
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR

ADVERTISERS NOW!
Visit our website to request exclusive and rapid information about
the latest technologies and services featured in this issue
INDEX TO ADVERTISERS
AKA Tools............................................................................................................. 70 Harburg Freudenberger Maschinenbau GmbH........Inside front cover Samson Machinery Inc.................................................................................44
Amino-Chem (HK) Co. Limited.................................................................. 72 Intralox...................................................................................................................51 SDS Systemtechnik.........................................................................................95
Ammeraal Beltech & Megadyne.............................................................. 101 Kistler ART...........................................................................................................43 Smithers...............................................................................................................84
Black Donuts Engineering Inc.................................................................... 17 Kobelco Stewart Bolling Inc....................................................................... 24
SOVA MOTION.....................................................................................................84
bogimac nv-sa.................................................................................................. 87 Lawer SpA...........................................................................................................99
Bosch Rexroth AB............................................................................................29 MAKROchem SA..................................................................................................11 Spoolex SAS.......................................................................................................35
Buss AG................................................................................................................ 97 Marangoni Meccanica SpA..................................... Outside back cover The Steelastic Company LLC......................................Inside back cover
Cimcorp Oy.........................................................................................................40 MESNAC................................................................................................................95 Tire Technology Expo & Conference 2022.............................. 19, 20, 21
Color Service Srl............................................................................................. 101 MICRO-EPSILON Messtechnik GmbH & Co. KG................................... 97 Tire Technology International online reader inquiry service.............103
Comerio Ercole SpA........................................................................................ 79 Momentive Performance Materials Inc..................................................13 TotalEnergies..................................................................................................... 32
Erhardt+Leimer GmbH...................................................................................74 Mondon SAS....................................................................................................... 87
TROESTER............................................................................................................99
Euro-Fitting Management nv.....................................................................68 Münch-Chemie International GmbH........................................................74
Evonik Industries AG......................................................................................38 NTE Process Srl................................................................................................ 79 VMI Group...............................................................................................................3
Flexsys Netherlands BV................................................................................93 Performance Fibers (Hong Kong) Limited............................................ 9 Zeppelin Systems GmbH...............................................................................15
Gottschol Alcuilux CZ, spol. sro................................................................26 Pesmel Oy...........................................................................................................93 ZF Friedrichshafen AG................................................................................... 72

T I R E T E C H N O LO G Y E X P O
FROM AWARD WINNER

TO EXHIBITOR
The Young Scientist Prize is a chance to recognize talented researchers and showcase
their work to the industry. In the case of 2015 winner Flavio Farroni, interviewed
here, his subsequent career has led him back to the Tire Technology Expo halls as his
company MegaRide (and startup VESevo) visit Hannover as fully fledged exhibitors
Right: Farroni picked

WHAT DO YOU REMEMBER COULD YOU IMAGINE SUCH up the Young Scientist
OF YOUR FIRST VISIT TO A JOURNEY BACK IN 2015? Prize in 2015, and
TIRE TECHNOLOGY EXPO? My story probably wouldn’t have been MegaRide won Tire
Technology of the
My first time was in 2015, right at the the same without Tire Expo. It allows Year three years later
end of my PhD [from the University of researchers and innovators to share Below left: MegaRide
Naples], developing tire mathematical their ideas and results, and to build and VESevo will be
models for motorsport. In Cologne that and strengthen relationships with showcasing their
latest developments
year, I was presented with the Young people in our community, often at this year’s event
Scientist Prize! It was an amazing leading to cooperation and friendships.
achievement, which gave me the chance For a few days, companies, universities
to push further with my research and and professionals are all in the same
to network in the tire community. place, all with a desire to share and
Two years later, with my academic learn. It’s a perfect environment for
colleagues, I founded my own making things happen.
company, MegaRide, as a University of
Naples spin-off. We grew very quickly, HOW DID THE GLOBAL
providing innovative solutions for PANDEMIC AFFECT YOUR
tire analysis and modeling. This was WORK AND RESEARCH?
recognized in 2018 as we were awarded We were quite lucky. As a software
the Tire Technology of the Year Award house, and as a small, agile company,
in Hannover. In 2020, MegaRide we were immediately able to switch
created VESevo, developing a device to digital, letting our team work physical place for a meeting, a hug,
for non-destructive characterization of almost as if nothing had happened. or a pizza together. Unexpectedly,
tire polymers. We have a very strong Now, we’re enjoying a ‘blended’ the pandemic brought an advantage:
bond with Tire Technology Expo, and approach to in-person and remote lots of people in front of their laptops
this year we’ll be in Hannover for the working, taking the best from both meant, for a startup company, the
first time with our booth, and with the the paradigms. This enables our possibility to communicate online with
wide presence of our research team guys to work from wherever they the same potential visibility as the big
and startup companies. like, but with the possibility of a corporates, allowing us to spread our
innovative methodologies to a very
large audience.
WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING

TO SHOWCASE AT THE EXPO
THIS YEAR?
We have an opportunity to be in
Hannover to interact with the tire
community on multiple levels: our
university team will illustrate the results
of our last two years of research on
tire digitalization and multiphysics
vehicle/road interaction and controls;
MegaRide will present its new real-
time models for motorsport and tire
manufacturing, reproducing wear and
viscoelastic phenomena in vehicle
simulations; and VESevo will unveil
the first commercial version of our tire
characterization portable device. We’re
looking forward to being there! 

Flexible component
prep manufacturing
to keep our customers
more agile
www.steelastic.com
#gocalenderless
+1 (330) 633-0505
[email protected]
LinkedIn

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MARCH 2022

WHAT’S NEW 30 Mining tire development COLUMNS

March 2022 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com 1

materials and technologies keeping

With regard to sustainability, in particular, could

there ever be such a thing as too much emphasis on

efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the tire

industry? Personally, I don’t think so. So this probably

2 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

4 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

March 2022 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com 5

Pirelli P Zero tires for

Goodyear chosen as ERA

6 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

March 2022 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com 7

with best-possible performance

Hankook remains exclusive Bridgestone launches New airport tire for

In brief throughout 2022. The partnership

8 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

Advan Sport V107

Our roundup of the latest offerings from leading OE manufacturers

10 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

MAKROchem. 25 years of service

SRI USING HYDROGEN IN MAXAM INTRODUCES PATENTED

GREEK PYROLYSIS PLANT PROGRESS

12 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

Sustainability & performance with NXT Silane

Our commitment is to be part of the solution

Will you partner with us? Maximize tire performance while

SRI LAUNCHES INITIATIVE TO

14 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

Illustration: Phil Hackett

16 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

Enhanced Real-time Intelligent Advanced Contact us

Illustration: Phil Hackett

18 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

EUROPE’S LEADING INTERNATIONAL TIRE DESIGN AND

MAY 18, 19, 20, 2022

*Conference rates apply - see website for details

#TireTechExpo @TiretechEXPO www.tiretechnology-expo.com

THE WORLD’S PREMIER

www.tiretechnology-expo.com #TireTechExpo @TiretechEXPO

#TireTechExpo @TiretechEXPO www.tiretechnology-expo.com

22 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

Evolutions and technological advances

March 2022 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com 23

March 2022 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com 25

• elimination of glossy imprint

(Read the Products & Services section

as data collection, creating a more effective

March 2022 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com 27

Regardless of where the developments come from, Right: Splicing of pre-

will be required to produce an period is expected to be reduced by 50% with VCD.”

28 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

Hägglunds is a brand of Rexroth.

30 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com March 2022

March 2022 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com 31

With Ricon® 330 aromatic polymers.

TOTAL Cray Valley’s Ricon resins are established as performance-

March 2022 www.tiretechnologyinternational.com 33