Understanding Your Tire Needs

Flotation vs. Traction

When selecting tires for your irrigation system, the key question is: Do you need flotation or traction?

What is Flotation?

Flotation helps prevent tires from sinking into soft or wet soil by distributing weight across a larger surface area.

What is Traction?

Traction ensures your irrigation system moves efficiently, especially on uneven or sloped terrain.
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  • Flotation depends on how much weight is distributed across the tire’s surface. A narrow tire carries more weight per square inch, increasing the risk of sinking. A wider tire—or multiple tires—spreads the weight, keeping the system on top of the soil.
  • In some cases, adding a third tire instead of switching to a larger tire can improve flotation.
  • Tire construction, including ply rating and radial vs. bias design, affects durability, flexibility, and performance.
  • Some tires are specifically designed for better flotation, such as wider Radial Tires, and Airless Tires.
Product Information

Understanding Tire Size & Construction

Size Considerations:

  • The first number in a tire size indicates width (e.g., 280/85R24 means 280mm wide).
  • The second number indicates aspect ratio (height relative to width).
  • A wider tire provides better flotation by distributing weight over a larger area.
  • A taller tire can help in deep, sticky mud, providing extra clearance and traction.
  • If increasing size isn't an option, adding a third tire can improve flotation by distributing weight more effectively.

Ply Rating & Construction:

  • 4-Ply vs. 6-Ply: Higher ply ratings offer more durability and stiffness.
  • Radial vs. Bias Tires: Radial tires provide a smoother ride and better weight distribution, which improves flotation.
  • Non-Directional vs. Directional Treads: Directional treads provide more grip, while non-directional tires offer balanced performance.
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When to Use Tubes for Tires

Tubes can extend the life of your tires and prevent costly downtime, but they aren't always necessary. Here’s when a tube might be the right choice:

  • Sealing Slow Leaks: If a tire is losing air but is otherwise in good shape, adding a tube can prevent frequent refilling.
  • Older or Worn Tires: Recap and older tires may develop small cracks that a tube can help seal.
  • Operating in Harsh Conditions: Tubes add an extra layer of protection in rocky terrain where punctures are more likely.
  • Air Retention in Bias-Ply Tires: Some bias-ply tires hold air better with a tube, especially if used in high-load applications.

When NOT to use tubes: Radial tires are designed to flex for better performance, and tubes can limit that flexibility, leading to premature wear. Always check manufacturer recommendations before installing tubes in radial tires

Product Information

When to Reverse a Tire

Reversing a tire can significantly impact traction and wear under certain conditions.

  • To Reduce Soil Displacement: On softer ground, reversing the tread pattern can help prevent excessive digging and reduce ruts.
  • For Extended Tire Life: If a tire is showing uneven wear, reversing it can distribute stress more evenly and maximize lifespan.
  • For Better Flotation in Muddy Conditions: In deep mud, reversing some tire types may help reduce slippage by adjusting how the tread interacts with the soil.
  • On Directional Tires: Some directional treads can be flipped to change performance, but check manufacturer guidance before doing so.

Not all tires can or should be reversed. If in doubt, consult with your dealer to determine whether reversing your tires could benefit your specific field conditions.

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Resources

Guides and insights designed to help you maximize efficiency, improve productivity, and make the most of your irrigation systems.
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СПРАВЖНІ РЕЗУЛЬТАТИ. СПРАВЖНІ ФЕРМЕРИ.
«Після того, як у мене з'явилася кругова система зрошення від Reinke я можу краще контролювати кількість води для рослин і не хвилююся, що їх затопить. Керувати пивотами дуже легко, а ще вони не вимагають так багато ручної праці, як полив затопленням».
Джеймс Сільва
Реальні результати. Справжні виробники.
«Мати доступ до даних із датчика, що знаходиться в ґрунті — це величезна перевага. Ці показники надходять майже в реальному часі й допомагають мені планувати наступне зрошення та оцінювати вплив опадів».
Білл Міз
Реальні результати. Справжні виробники.
«Коли я перейшов на кругову систему зрошення Reinke, стало легше контролювати полив — тепер я не хвилююся, що рослини можуть загинути від надлишку води. До того ж такий спосіб значно зручніший та потребує менше фізичних зусиль порівняно із  поливом затопленням».
Як Йохан ван дер Вестхуйзен

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