First hot retreaded 3rd generation tyres from Continental
The launch of the new generation of the Conti EcoPlus tyre family is now underway, with the first hot retreaded 3rd generation tyres now leaving the ContiLifeCycle plant in Hanover. As with all 3rd generation Continental tyres, the new range is based on an improved, retreadable premium casing with reinforced steel cord beads and is completely regroovable.
The ContiRe EcoPlus HT3 is the retreaded version of the new trailer tyre Conti EcoPlus HT3. Its newly adapted polymer rubber compounds for treads and sidewalls, its stable, closed shoulder belts and the improved tread concept “Plus Volume Pattern” significantly improve rolling resistance (with a decrease of up to 26 percent compared to its predecessor) and handling characteristics of the new tyre. The optimised grip in the newly adjusted tread compound transfers the trailer’s cornering forces and high share of the braking torque to the road. In addition, the pyramid-shaped triangular ribs integrated into the base of the tread groove stabilise the trailer tyre against flexing in the tread width.
The ContiRe EcoPlus HT3 maintains the same benefits asthe new tyre, Conti EcoPlus HT3, thanks in part to the design of all Continental commercial vehicle tyres, which takes retreading into account during product development. Equally beneficial is the integrated approach of the innovative ContiLifeCycle plant where Continental is aligning the production of retreaded tyres for trucks and buses, by combining the use of techniques from new tyre production and refined retreading technologies. Continentals’ own rubber recycling system is also an essential component of the ContiLifeCycle plant. The tread powder that arises during buffing is put through a series of innovative processing steps, so that the curing process is reversed. The recycled rubber produced is of such a high quality that it can be used for new tyre compounds. Through this recycling process, the amount of waste can be reduced by more than 80 percent with significant CO2savings.
Christian Sass, head of Truck Tires Retreading EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa) explains the efficiency of retreaded tyres: “Premium retreading can significantly help fleet operators reduce their tyre costs by up to 25 percent. This generates the lowest overall driving costs within our ContiLifeCycle. The lower consumption of valuable resources such as natural rubber and the production energy saving of up to 70 percent compared with new tyre production also improve fleets environmental impact .”
As with all Continental truck tyres, the new ContiRe EcoPlus HT3 also features the patented AirKeep®innerliner to prevent gradual loss of air pressure. All retreaded ContiRe tyres also benefit from the same manufacturer guarantees as for new tyres.