ROVERETO, Italy—Marangoni Tyre S.p.A. is accelerating production of its Blackline ultra-performance range of retread products in response to an evolving retread market.
Since its introduction to the market two years ago, Blackline has grown to account for 30 percent of all Ringtread rings sold, according to the company, and the line continues to see an increase in sales. Marangoni said Blackline products expand the utilization of retreads to high performance areas, on extreme low-aspect ratio tires or tires in heavy duty applications, all of which previously have been underserved segments of the retread market.
At this time, Marangoni offers 13 Blackline tread patterns and has plans to roll out two additional patterns, the RTL FE trailer, and the RDL FE drive. Each is “intended for long continental routes and both characterized by excellent rolling resistance and durability,” according to the company.
In recent months, three other new Blackline-patterns were launched: RDR HM3, ICE100 and WSS.
The RDR HM3 pattern is intended for the drive axle of high-power and torque vehicles, primarily operating on domestic and regional routes, especially in harsh conditions. “It has provided impressive results with regard to durability,” the company said, adding that “tread-width has been increased by 10 percent compared to previous generation products.”
The ICE100 line is for drive axles and was developed for use in extreme winter conditions, especially on icy roads. It is suited for vehicles operating in a long distance application. “The pattern is characterized by heavily siped blocks and an open shoulder row, designed to cut into the ice and provide excellent traction with, or without the use of spikes under extreme winter-conditions,” according to Marangoni.
All Blackline tires are designed to meet demands laid forth by the retread market, particularly where fleets have turned to retread tires while also seeking high-quality, cost-saving tires which offer “reliable performance, improved durability and rolling resistance” Marangoni said.
Launched last year, WSS, has a linear design for non-driving axles and features the 3PMSF marking to indicate it meets market requirements for greater safety, especially in winter conditions. “The ‘twisterlock' technology siping, the square profile to maximize the footprint on the ground, transverse grooves on the shoulders, and ultra high-performance compounds for all conditions of use, provide excellent overall performance,” Marangoni said.
The Blackline range is available only from selected retreaders that can guarantee process and control standards required by Marangoni. A training program is in place which could allow for additional retreaders to join the Marangoni network.