1. Preventing Damage Propagation

If left unaddressed minor damage (which does not penetrate the carcass or overly effect body cords) is likely to propagate and lead to more significant issues over time.

This is particularly the case for sidewall damage. Small cuts, abrasions, or surface imperfections may not immediately compromise tyre performance, however, as the tyre works such damage can eventually lead to structural integrity degradation and/or air leaks. A preventative cosmetic maintenance program ensures that minor issues are addressed early to avoid premature failures, production down time and the need for extensive repairs.

2. Maximising Tyre Lifespan

OTR tyres are valuable assets. Preventative repairs typically involve rectifying surface damage to the sidewall, tread, or shoulder areas. Damage that does not extend to structural components. By repairing this damage, the tyre life can be extended before extensive section repair is required. This helps reduce the reliance on new tyres, lowering overall operating costs.

3. Maintaining Operational Efficiency

Unplanned equipment downtime is costly, every hour of operation is valuable. Minor tyre repairs can prevent the escalation of damage, assisting the consistency of haul truck availability and mitigating disruptions to fleet operations.

4. Safety Considerations

While minor repairs typically do not affect the structural integrity of a tyre, maintaining tyres in good condition—both functionally and aesthetically can have indirect safety benefits. Tyres with damaged surfaces are more likely to experience a failure under load. Repairing minor surface flaws reduces the risk of damage propagation which could compromise vehicle stability and safety. This is especially important in mining environments, where tyre failure could result in accidents, injuries, or expensive equipment damage.

5. Aesthetic Appeal

Although physical appearance is secondary to tyre performance, keeping tires looking presentable is still relevant. Well-maintained tyres contribute to a fleet’s professional appearance, which can be important for operators, company reputation, client relations and inspections.

6. Environmental Impact

By repairing and maintaining tires rather than replacing them prematurely, a fleet can reduce waste and minimize its environmental footprint. Tires are large, heavy, take up space in landfills and take thousands of years to decompose. A minor repair program promotes sustainability by extending the lifecycle of tires; thus decreasing the number of tires discarded.

7. Enhanced Resale Value

For owners who plan to sell their equipment at end of mechanical/chassis life, keeping tires in good physical condition enhances the resale value of the equipment. A well-maintained tire, even if not perfect, can contribute to achieving a higher resale price.

In summary, a minor damage tire repair program for a fleet using OTR tyres is vital to ensure the long-term performance, cost-efficiency, and safety of a mining operation. It helps operators maximize tire lifespan, reduce costs, maintain operational uptime, and contribute to sustainability efforts.