In the world of agriculture, performance and productivity have long been the primary focus. However, a new dimension is gaining importance: acoustic comfort. BKT, the global leader in off-highway tyres, is pioneering solutions that reduce noise without compromising efficiency.
The Hidden Impact of Noise in Agriculture
Agricultural operations, particularly road transport, generate significant noise primarily from tyre-road interactions. These vibrations, occurring at approximately 100 Hertz, create resonance inside tractor cabs that amplifies the perceived noise—especially at higher speeds.
As modern farming evolves, the industry is recognising that quieter operations aren't just more pleasant—they're more sustainable and efficient. This shift has led to the development of better soundproofed cabs in next-generation tractors.
BKT's Innovative Approach to Acoustic Comfort
BKT has responded to this challenge with two specialised tyre patterns designed to reduce noise while maintaining high performance:
- AGRIMAX V-FLECTO: Engineered for high-powered tractors that handle both soil tillage and transport. Its design reduces soil compaction, lowering vibration levels for a quieter ride. The special tread pattern optimises ground contact, enhancing driving comfort while containing noise.
- RIDEMAX IT 697: A radial tractor tyre designed for haulage applications as well as municipal and maintenance operations. The block-pattern tread and wide footprint provide excellent traction and stability, even under heavy loads. Its design helps maintain low noise levels over time, making it a reliable choice for intensive road transport.
Benefits Beyond Noise Reduction
As Piero Torassa, Field Engineering Director at BKT Europe, explains: "AGRIMAX V-FLECTO and RIDEMAX IT 697 are two BKT tyres best able to significantly reduce noise, even though it is still important to make an overall assessment that considers the type of road operation, the vehicle used, and the intensity of the operations. It is from the combination of these factors that these tyres contribute significantly to improved operator comfort, reducing fatigue and enhancing driving pleasure and attention, especially in contexts involving long journeys, as it is the case in liquid manure transport, for example."
The benefits extend beyond the operator’s experience. Reducing noise pollution in rural areas helps protect the natural environment while minimising disturbance to wildlife and local communities.
Looking ahead, BKT’s focus on balancing performance with operator comfort reflects how the agricultural industry is evolving. Modern farming isn’t just about productivity—it is also about creating sustainable, comfortable working conditions that benefit operators, communities, and the environment.
By investing in technologies that reduce noise without sacrificing performance, BKT is helping shape a future where agricultural operations can be both powerful and peaceful.
Agrigear is the exclusive importer and distributor of BKT tyres throughout all of Ireland. BKT Tyres are available from Agrigear's network of agents countrywide, click here to find your nearest BKT stockist.