I talk to a lot of people in my line of work, as do most journalists. And, although we rarely admit it publicly, we all have favourite experts to interview. You know the ones; super knowledgeable, speak clearly and concisely, give great quotes…
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One of my favourites, and if you’ve followed my work for a few years you’ll already know this, is Dan Allan, senior vice president for Kal Tire’s Mining Tire Group.
Dan is a fount of information and has heaps of experience. So, I was delighted when he agreed to jump on a call in August to talk data collection and visualisation in the tyre management space.
“Today, miners have access to a lot more data. They’re trying to be very datacentric, especially the large ones like BHP, Rio Tinto… they’ve all made strides in terms of big data analytics,” he began.
“We’ve seen more and more customers go that total pit to port route, pushing towards autonomy or using data analytics to predict loads and schedule freights. Mines are much more connected now than they’ve ever been.
“The challenge for small companies like us [Kal Tire] is to stay relevant with all this stuff. We don’t make the tyres or the equipment, but customers look to us to have that analytic ability, to tell them what’s going on with their consumable product.
“Going forward, our value in that chain will really rely on us being able to aggregate data in a simple way, interpret it and feed it back to a customer in a manner that they can consume it properly, and that’s why we developed TOMS.”
TOMS is Kal Tire’s proprietary Tire Operations Management System. Launched in , the platform collects and analyses tyre performance data from mine fleets to aid predictive maintenance and performance optimisation. The system is fast approaching deployment at 100 mine sites across the globe.
Allan continued: “One of your questions is about open-ended architecture and how easy it is to swap information back and forth… It’s getting much easier to bring in data from various systems, but I don’t see many that enable various sources of data to be easily interpreted and then fed back.”
It’s true. I’ve written multiple articles about tyre management over the years and one of the things that has always struck me as challenging for miners is navigating the number of brand-specific management and analytics systems available (almost every manufacturer has their own) and the volume of data that those collect.
As an operator, most likely with a mixed fleet of machines, fitted with tyres from multiple manufacturers and with different rims, how do you bring all that data together and get the most out of it? There’s almost too much.
“In my opinion, there’s way too much data,” Allan said. “We’ve learnt a lot about data collection; it’s not all relevant. You need to look for spikes beyond the norm, the brackets and anomalies.
“We’ve learnt on the tyre management side that with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), heat recordings… that sort of stuff, you don’t need to know when its normal, you need to know when it’s not normal. You need to know the period preceding that and following that in terms of what’s happened.
“The idea of exception data reporting makes that a little bit more palatable but, for sure, mining companies are collecting tonnes of data I’m not sure they’ll ever be able to sift through.”
The other big challenge the industry faces is tyre sensor reliability and accuracy: false positives and negatives can easily corrupt datasets.
“It’s taken a long time for sensors to become more reliable,” agreed Allan. “TPMS sensors used to be in the range of 75% reliable; that’s nowhere close to being useful. It’s only in the last couple of years that has improved and that we’ve understood how to properly maintain sensors. So, you can imagine, all the data that’s been collected prior to that… 10-20% of it is just garbage.
How has sensor technology changed? I asked.
“If we go back to the history of TPMS systems,” said Allan. “We [Kal Tire] had a relationship with the Fuller Brothers back in the day, and I saw examples of mining tyre sensors that were literally the size of a soccer ball and would weigh around 14lbs.
“The sensor would be put into a truck tyre where it would roll around and collect information. These gradually evolved into system-provided sensors that didn’t have to mount inside the tyre; they used a proxy for heat. However, those had to be protected, so we started monitoring tyres on the side and on the rims.
“Both Bridgestone and Continental even tried baking sensors into new tyres; there was no sensor that could survive that exercise. Even now, you’ve got passive versus active sensor technology which has changed the game a lot.
“It’s been a long journey, but sensors are getting more reliable, they’re getting cheaper and they’re more common place. Manufacturers are slowly weeding out the things that don’t work and sticking to those that do.”
To get back to the issue of interoperability…
The Goodyears, Bridgestones, Michelins of this world all have their own tyre monitoring systems. I asked Allan whether it’s possible for those types of systems to exchange data, or for one to analyse data from another manufacturer’s tyres…?
“It is,” he said. “And the issue is not one of technology, it’s one of purpose. The tyre manufacturers want the best information they can about their own tyre, so they design their system with that in mind.
“There are examples where we’ve seen – for instance – Bridgestone sensors fitted on Michelin tyres, but it’s not that common, and I don’t think the tyre manufacturers have set themselves up for that to be: a) a true profit centre on its own, or b) really reflective of what the customer’s needs are.
“Many of the tyre management systems on the market… they’re good systems but objectivity tends to be an issue for customers. And, from a manufacturer perspective, what happens to other brands of tyres is secondary. There’s a conflict of interest.”
There are also data sharing and security to consider. For example, if a major tyre manufacturer were to purchase a tyre tracking software provider or similar, then rather than a third party holding data on mining customer’s fleet performance, it would be in the hands of the tyre supplier.
Standards and ethics mean it’s unlikely that deals like this would be a problem but, in an age where data (knowledge) is power, it’s only natural to question data security.
Allan continued: “Interoperability and sharing of the data are not generally an issue. Getting it all in one place so that you can show a customer a comprehensive overview of the entire ecosystem is still a challenge.
“This is where some upstart data aggregators, companies like Newtrax which was bought by Sandvik, are making waves. It’s a really important segment that we need to keep our eye on and see where we can partner, because the gaps in these systems… that’s where the critical learning will happen.
“We’re never going to know more about CAT equipment than the Caterpillar people, and they’re never going to know as much about tyres as we do, but if, together, we look at how that tyre interacts with the suspension system or with the transmission, and how those areas interface, that’s where the real learning and value could be.”
So, how could the data gathered be used beyond basic maintenance? What value does it hold?
“There are two areas that we’re hopeful about,” said Allan. “The first concerns automation. There’s not a lot of experience yet in terms of what components could have their lifetimes extended, or what’s impacted negatively because of duty cycles or wear. We’re hoping to learn more as more autonomous fleets are put into practice.
“The second is predictive analytics: the ability to say, ‘if this condition exists, then we can tell you with a degree of certainty that this event will eventually transpire’.
“With the massive amounts of data that we have, it’s still not simple to associate say, a tyre cut, with what happened in the preceding two hours, or the following two hours. And then to determine, if that condition exists, how long before the tyre will fail.
“That’s partly because of the number of variables involved but also the limited number of instances. Mining tyres traditionally last 5,000-7,000 hours, so it takes a while to build up the numbers so that you can start to make correlations.”
Which is also why automation is probably the biggest single optimisation opportunity for mines, not just in cost savings but in health and safety too; because operators are the biggest variable of all.
For TOMS, Kal Tire uses artificial intelligence-based analytics paired with optical recognition software – photos are taken of every tyre injury and fed into the system – to help train the algorithms on what data exceptions or conditions to look for.
Those are translated into alerts for operators and/or management staff which are received via a tablet or mobile so that swift action can be taken.
“We’ve taught the AI tool to recognise different types of tyre cuts, where they occurred, and the likelihood that they will result in a major failure,” explained Allan. “Traditionally, when a truck comes in for a fuel stop, service technicians will inspect the wheels, make sure that the temperature and pressure are correct, inspect for cracks etc.
“Imagine a world where the truck could pull into that fuelling station and, automatically, cameras perform those inspections. All the service technicians need to do is use the high level part of their brain to say, ‘no that is a smaller cut rather than a larger cut’, because the optical recognition systems have already told them what’s going on.
“That’s our vision of the future; not to supplement our team members with machines but to supplement their knowledge by having machines show them in advance, what they should be looking for.”
How far off are we from that given the rate of progress? I asked.
“I can’t tell you the company because we’ve signed an NDA, but some of that work is underway right now,” said Allan excitedly. “It’s very much a prototype project, but we are trying this with a major customer to see how far we can take the concept. Which is kind of cool!”
It really is. Because maintenance activities, which are very hands on and can require heavy lifting or working at height, are some of the most dangerous for people to work in. They are also some of the hardest to recruit skilled technicians for.
By limiting human involvement to problem solving and troubleshooting, mines can make better use of the skilled technicians they do have and keep them safer.
I asked Allan how he sees tyre management systems and their capabilities evolving going forward?
“We’ve already seen, through Translogik, through some of the stuff that BKT has done, and through Michelin’s MEMS 4 system development, that TPMS capabilities have expanded,” he said. “They’ve gone from measuring heat and pressure to featuring gyroscopes and accelerometers… there’s a good blend of technology in these systems and they’re getting cheaper to install.
“Most are still pretty fussy to maintain though and that needs to be improved. For instance, if a sensor signal goes down, you’ve got to figure out what’s going on without bringing that truck out of service. So again, going back to sensor reliability, if it is not 95, 98, 99% reliable you could have productivity problems.
“I don’t think tyre management systems themselves will evolve much further, but I do think there are opportunities to aggregate the data they generate and use it to improve areas like haul road designs, maintenance, those sorts of things.
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“We see that as a possible extension rather than an evolution of the equipment.”
Underground mining tyres or mining tires are specifically engineered for use in underground mining operations, where the conditions can be challenging and demanding. These tires are a crucial component of mining equipment and are subjected to rocky debris, sharp-edged walls, high load capacities and heat. They are designed to excel in these conditions and offer excellent overall cost-effectiveness.
The primary objective of underground mining tires is to enhance productivity in critical construction applications. They provide enhanced damage protection and durability, while their multi-surface tread design ensures optimal control and grip on various terrains such as sand, rock, gravel and soil.
These tires features are radial carcass and utilize state-of-the-art compound that assures long life. They also provide equal load distribution for a comfortable ride and maintain low fuel consumption.
Forlander is the leading OTR tire manufacturer and supplier, we offers complete lines of mining tires for sale with custom sizes and specifications at competitive factory price. Forlander KT100 L5S series underground mining tires are specifically designed for loader applications. They offer the best solutions for open pits, quarries, underground mines, waste and recycling operations, as well as severe construction applications. These tires are engineered to meet the specific demands of these environment, delivering reliable performance and durability.
Underground mining tyres are specifically designed tires used in underground mining operations. They are engineered to withstand the demanding and harsh conditions encountered in mines. These tires are mainly utilized on heavy-duty mining vehicles like haul trucks, loaders, and underground mining equipment.
Constructed using robust materials and reinforced sidewalls, underground mining tires are built to withstand punctures, cuts, and abrasions caused by rough terrain, rocks, and debris commonly found in mining environments. They are designed to offer exceptional traction and stability on uneven surfaces while enduring the heavy loads and constant movement associated with mining operations.
The importance of underground mining tyres cannot be overstated. They are crucial for enhancing the efficiency and safety of mining operations. These specialized tires are specifically designed to operate effectively in challenging and harsh underground conditions, including rough terrains, rocks, and various mining debris. Their durability, traction, and resistance to damage contribute significantly to the overall productivity and performance of mining vehicles and equipment in underground mining environments.
When choosing the best underground mining tires, the following factors should be considered.
The tire pattern plays a crucial role in traction and stability. Different tread patterns are designed for specific terrains and conditions. It's important to select a tire pattern that suits the underground mining environment and provides optimal grip and self-cleaning properties.
Consider the performance characteristics of the tires, such as load-carrying capacity, speed rating, and resistance to cuts, punctures, and abrasions. The tires should be able to withstand the demanding conditions of underground mining operations and deliver reliable performance.
Understand the specific requirements of the mining operation. Factors such as the type of mining equipment, operating conditions, and the nature of the terrain should be considered. Different applications may require different tire specifications, such as size, load rating, and sidewall protection.
Consider the reputation and track record of the tire manufacturers. Look for manufacturers with a history of producing high-quality tires that are known for their durability, performance, and reliability. It's advisable to choose reputable manufacturers that have experience and expertise in manufacturing tires for underground mining applications. Forlander is the mining tire manufacturer and supplier with 40+ years of experiences.
Mining truck tires are often filled with a specialized foam material known as polyurethane foam. This foam filling process involves injecting the foam into the tire cavity, replacing the air inside. The foam material used is typically a two-component polyurethane foam that expands and solidifies, providing support and stability to the tire.
Foam filling offers several advantages for mining trucks operating in demanding environments. The foam-filled tires provide increased puncture resistance, as the foam material helps to prevent sharp objects from penetrating the tire. This reduces the risk of tire damage and blowouts, enhancing safety and reducing downtime.
Additionally, foam-filled tires offer improved load-carrying capacity by reducing sidewall flexing and increasing stability. This allows mining trucks to handle heavy loads more effectively and maintain better control on uneven terrain.
The foam filling process also helps to dampen vibrations and reduce the risk of tire flats. The foam material acts as a shock absorber, providing a smoother ride and reducing the impact on the tire.
While foam-filled tires offer excellent reliability and durability, it is worth noting that they can be more expensive compared to standard air-filled tires. However, the benefits of increased reliability and reduced downtime in mining operations often justify the higher cost for mining truck operators.
When reviewing the best underground mining tires, we consider factors such as tire pattern, performance characteristics, application requirements, and the reputation of the tire manufacturer. Followed are some reputable mining tyre brands that were well-regarded.
Michelin XTXL mining tires are designed to give the highest levels of reliability focusing on safety and performance. Our expert knowledge and experience combined with our simulation and analysis tools and our excellent support services help you to make best use of your tires to improve your productivity.
These tires have proven to be a game-changer in terms of performance and durability. One of the standout features of Michelin mining tires is their ability to withstand the harshest conditions. Whether it's rocky terrains, muddy surfaces, or extreme temperatures, these tires have consistently delivered exceptional traction and stability.
There is a significant reduction in slippage and improved control, even in challenging environments. The durability of Michelin mining tires is truly impressive. They have shown remarkable resistance to cuts, punctures, and wear, which is crucial in our line of work.
Pros:
Compared with underground tires with no cooling system, Michelin Mining Tires XTXL feature a cooling system and optimized design with a specialized compound, ensuring extended service life. With effective heat management and superior durability, these tires excel in demanding mining operations, reducing downtime and maintenance costs while enhancing overall productivity.
Cons:
Compared with solid mining tires with higher thickness smooth tread, Michelin mining tires XTXL is not the ideal choice for limited and frequent turn aroung in extreme undergroung conditions.
Bridgestone VSN underground mining tyres deliver a high level of stability & traction with superior cut resistance and durability while still conforming with site’s heat severe requirements. In continous change of social and economic trends, customers’ needs in mining operations also change a lot. The role of Bridgestone is to contribute to productivity improvement and cost optimization of each customer in accordance with cost effiecent changes.
These tires have some unique features in term of quality which was explained below series wise.
Performance: They are often praised for their excellent performance on both wet and dry surfaces. They offer good traction, stability, and responsive handling, providing a confident driving experience.
Durability: Many users report that Bridgestone tires are duable and have a long lifespan, there tires are resistant to wear and tear. They effectively absorb road vibrations and minimize noise.
Fuel Efficiency: They are designed to reduce rolling resistance, which can help improve fuel economy and reduce carbon emissions.
Safety: They offer reliable braking performance, good grip on various road surfaces, and effective handling in different weather conditions, enhancing overall driving safety.
Pros:
Bridgestone tires offers extra-heavy duty loader performance with excellent traction, cut resistance and long tread life. Design ensures equal load distribution and even contact for rider comfort and enhance overall productivity.
Cons:
Bridgestone huge customer base thinks about them that Bridgestone tires are durable but quite noisy due to stiffness. However, depending on the user’s experience, they may find Bridgestone tires good or not, or suitable for their daily journey.
Goodyear retreads deliver like-new performance and can provide a savings of up to 60% versus a new tire. Retreads can extend the life of a tire and promote sustainability by helping to reduce unnecessary waste.
Goodyear's tire GP-4D for long hours to removal and cut protection in hard rock underfoot conditions. Specialized Mining Tyres, technologies, construction and more help lower operating costs. Goodyear offers products, services and solutions to minimize costs, and stay productive so you can achieve desried perfromance.
Pros:
Goodyear's tire for long hours to removal and cut protection in hard rock underfoot. Also the tire has double the tread life, and so on. And most important advantage of this tire is the ability to run at high speeds, and all tires sold in the world market have best quality ratings.
Cons:
These tires are not suitable in all conditions. For some condidtions are fine, except dry pavement. Although good for dry traction, but wet traction does not exist for these tires. It takes everything keep truck on the road in any wet condition.
Nokian Mining is a reputable tire manufacturer known for producing tires specifically designed for mining operations. Their mining tires are engineered for demanding conditions, such as rough terrains, heavy loads, and extreme temperatures.
Nokian Mining tires King E-4 is generally high in demand due to their durability and resistance to wear and tear. They are designed to provide excellent traction and stability, allowing mining vehicles to operate efficiently and safely in challenging conditions. The tires are also known for their puncture resistance and long lifespan, which can contribute to cost savings for mining companies.
Pros:
The choice of drill rig tires plays an important role in getting the most out of your rig and maximizing productivity. To keep the cost per meter as low as possible, downtime of the machines must be kept to a minimum.
Cons:
Typically, a drill rig does not cover that much mileage during its operating life, but its tires still face many challenges. Puncture risk from sharp rocks, drill cuttings, wet and slippery stones. Mining and tunneling work in such demanding conditions require mining tires designed specifically for its challenges. This is what Nokian Tyres is specialized in making your every workday safer and more efficient.
Underground mining tires are specially designed for mining undergroung operations. These tires are engineered to operate in the rough conditions and challenges which are occuring due to natural environment. Underground mining involves extracting valuable minerals or other geological materials from below surface of earth.
Forlander is one of the main tire manufacturer and supplier from leading tire companies, and they are producing high qaulity mining tires which are specifically designed for harsh underground mining operations.
They are selling various mining tire sizes including 10.00-20, 12.00-24, 14.00-24, 17.50-25, 18.00-25, and 26.50-25, providing options to meet the specific requirements of different underground mining equipment.
Forlander’s KT100S L-5S mining tire and F62 E3/L3A Underground mining tires are engineered for Articulated Dump Trucks (ADTs) or heavy loaders operating under challenging conditions in construction and mining applications. These tires are constructed with a bias-ply design, premium quality tread and sidewall rubber compounds. These materials provide maximum resistance to rock cutting, penetrations, and tearing making them an excellent choice for heavy-duty underground mining operations.
Pros:
This underground mining tyres are specialized design provides exceptional puncture resistance and a strong bearing capacity, significantly enhancing durability against cuts, punctures, and chipping caused by sharp rocks which commonly found in mining areas.
This tire usage is well in the challenging mine construction environment due to its outclass traction capability. This feature not only increase the workability and lifetime of the OTR tire but also minimizes tread damage, which ensured optimal performance and durability which ultimately contributing to enhance your productivity and minimze maintenance costs in your mining operations.
Cons:
Forlander tires provide less shock absorption causing discomfort and fatigue during long periods of working, Which can impact operator comfort. This reduced chances of suitablitiy of tire and cannot be considered much good choice for limited and frequent turn around in extreme undergroung conditions.
The selection of best mining tire manufacturer is a critical decision for any mining operation. Because safety of your staff, efficiency of vehicles and work progress completely depend on tires. Although mining tires are not only rubber and tread, they have to cope up with extreme conditions, carry heavy loads, and ensure the overall safety, and choosing the right manufacturer have a vital impact on the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of mining operations.
Selecting the right mining tires involves careful consideration of various factors, including tire size, tread pattern, load-carrying capacity, and resistance to punctures. Also some other factors needs to be checked which can encounter the extreme conditions, supports heavy machinery, enhancing efficiency and productivity.
The mining tire industry continues to evolve with advancements in technology. New materials, tread designs, and construction methods have improved the performance and longevity of mining tires.
So it is utmost important to stay updated with world high quality mines tire manufacturers who used modern and recent advance technology and production methods to produce tires by using all important factors which helps in mining smooth operations. In this article we tried to summarize some of the leading manufacturers details.
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