By Undeniably, one of the most dangerous, complicated, and dirty work is mining. While all types of mining are tough and challenging, it is more so for underground areas. Safety for both operators and equipment is paramount even when the mining’s ultimate goal is to do the shortest time in ore extraction. Fast extraction also means costs are kept to a minimum.
Logistical management needs a good balance between the well-being of the crews and maintaining profits with constant ore production and transit. Among the mix include the choice of mining tyres.
One of the most crucial line-item expenses of any mining operation is accounting for mining tyres. It’s not just the actual cost of buying mining tyres but also includes the costs of vigilance in avoiding costly mishaps when mining tyres malfunction. Mining tyre technology and the project are important parts of the equation when it comes to choosing the best tyre.
Some of the vulnerability areas in the choice of mining tyres include:
- The choice of tyre format can make or break the entire mining operation.
- Tyre deflations and punctures can bring the mining operation to a sudden halt.
- Selecting the wrong tyre that does not meet the specifications of the job or equipment can quickly deplete budget reserves.
- Potential denigration of the tyres while work is undergoing
- Inappropriate attention to the carbon footprint caused by the selected tyres can create negative feedback from environment watchdogs.
Types of Mining Tyre Technologies
The choice of mining tyre technologies depends on the work project. It includes:
Polyurethane-filled mining tyres
Foam fill is the common term used by the mining industry for polyurethane-filled mining tyres. Puncture proofing is done by injecting an elastomer core into the pneumatic mining tyres. It is an effective technology that has been used for more than four decades by underground mining operations.
The benefits these tyres provide include:
- A smoother ride for the human operator and the chassis, axles, and drivetrain of the equipment
- Easily re-used and recycled, thus reducing the carbon footprint
- Offer a deflection rate with the extra weight added to the wheel
- Zero tire pressure
- Complete flat-proofing
Air-filled pneumatic mining tyres
The best manoeuvrability and agility are gained when opting for air-filled pneumatic mining tyres. The cushioned, smooth, and comfortable ride for operators makes them one of the popular tyre choices. The great deflection provided by the tyres makes them essential for underground mining operations.
However, constant air maintenance and monitoring pressure is required for this type of tyre. Rim assembly challenges could impact the safety of both the operator and equipment.
Solid rubber mining tyres
The strong plus of solid rubber tyres is their flat-proof and sturdy ability to withstand punctures. However, their lack of flexibility, added weight, and rigidity create a jolting and bumpy ride for operators.
They are seldom used in modern mining environments because manoeuvring them can be difficult. It has been seen that levels of productivity are reduced when using solid rubber tyres. Additionally, damage to the drivetrain and chassis is caused by the hard ride of the rubber tyres.
Factors such as hard financials and manpower costs should be carefully considered when choosing the best mining tyres. Ultimately, the favourable tire technology will likely dictate the decision of the mining operator.
Bearcat stock the leading mining tyres. Get in touch with us for more information.
