Hankook: SmartFlex AL51 and DL51 tyres designed for regional and long-distance
Both the SmartFlex AL51 and DL51 are suitable for regrooving and are made on a casing that “ensures they can all be retreaded too” (Photo: Hankook)
As the logistics and transport industry becomes increasingly more competitive and challenging, Hankook is taking on the challenge with its expanded tyre portfolio for regional and long-haul vehicles with the addition of two new truck tyres suitable for both long-distance and regional transport. The Hankook SmartFlex AL51 for the steering axle and an all-position tyre and the new Hankook SmartFlex DL51 for the drive axle are specifically designed to meet these hybrid distance requirements.
Hankook’s design engineers have managed to reduce rolling resistance of the SmartFlex AL51 by up to 20 per cent compared with the SmartFlex AH31 through adopting various targeted measures. The SmartFlex AL51 features a stepped tread groove wall which reportedly increases the stability of the now wider tread blocks. The reason these are designed to be stiffer is in order to improve grip, mileage and to reduce rolling resistance. In addition, the reinforced interlocking of the blocks reportedly has a positive impact on the tyre’s service life and traction. In addition, the sipes and hidden tread grooves created through the 3D metal printing procedure are designed to allow for even wear.
Similarly, the SmartFlex DL51 brings together multiple innovations for the drive axle to reduce rolling resistance by up to 25 per cent compared to the previous Hankook SmartFlex DH31. The more closed tread deep within the tyre, which features three parallel zig-zag tread grooves, is specifically designed to improve traction while lowering rolling resistance. Likewise, the wider tread blocks are there to minimise rolling resistance while increasing stiffness. As per the model for the steering axle, the tread adapts organically as the tyre wears down. New tread patterns appear in stages to ensure low rolling resistance, superb traction and good wet braking performance throughout the mileage covered.
An important feature of these new products in the Hankook SmartFlex range is the advanced compounding technology; a carbon-silica dual filler system, which improves the homogeneity of the rubber compound mix, increasing fuel efficiency. Another notable feature is the significantly lower level of heat generated by the tyre, which is due to Hankook’s innovative mixing system (IMS) and the rigidity of the tread blocks due to the interlocking 3D sipes. The Stiffness Control Contour Technology (SCCT) ensures uniform tread deformation, which counteracts uneven wear through targeted load distribution.
SmartFlex tyres display the 3PMSF symbol to indicate unlimited use all year round. Both of the new variants are suitable for regrooving, are made on a casing that “ensures they can all be retreaded too”.
Comments