Recently, Tire Review published an article “OTR Market: Highs and Lows”, detailing the factors currently affecting the OTR tire market and what changes to expect in the future. While economic and environmental influences were discussed, the article also stressed the importance of understanding OTR tire maintenance and performance. The environments in which OTR tires are used, such as mining, earthmoving, and construction, are extreme. In these environments, having well-maintained tires would help prevent dangerous blowouts and unsafe working environments. Factors such as load capacity, heat, and tire wear will all affect the performance of the tires – and, in return, the operator’s profitability and production.
Taking a few precautions when inspecting your tires can save expensive equipment, and in extreme cases, workers’ lives. Here, we list a few suggestions on inspecting your tires and preventing dangerous accidents.
The above infographic demonstrates what to look for when inspecting OTR tires.
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In these environments, constant stop-start actions on the equipment lead to increased wheel-end temperatures and loose wheel-end components. Consider utilizing lug nut indicators to signify when components are loosening, which will reduce the risk of a dangerous wheel-off in demanding environments.
One loose nut indicator in the market, the CHECKPOINT High-Temp indicators, will run at high-temperatures and continue to indicate whether a lug nut is adequately tight. Learn more about those lug nut indicators here.
Also, be sure to check the tread and sidewalls of your tires for any cracks, punctures, or severe wear. These examinations should be done daily to prevent dangerous blowouts. A few extra minutes of inspection can lead to many dollars saved and accidents prevented.
PREVENTION
While OTR tires are built to withstand extreme environments, they are also tested by terrain, debris, and excessive temperatures.
Should a puncture occur, proactively avoid a blowout or excessive air loss by outfitting tires with sealant within the tires. Sealant will remain within the tires and continuously prevent air loss, condition the tires, and seal punctures. For more information on sealant specifically formulated for OTR environments, click here.
Another way to monitor the safety of your tires is to use a tire pressure management system (TPMS). As noted in the Engineering and Mining Journal, using TPMS within OTR tires – especially in extreme environments such as mining – allows operators to keep a constant watch on the air pressure of the tires. This data is key to preventing blowouts… and keeping OTR tires performing at their best.
While OTR tires may be built to withstand more rugged applications, taking preventative measures and performing routine inspections will keep the tires functioning properly and greatly reduce the risk of dangerous accidents on-site. Be sure to spend a few minutes on these tasks, and you’ll have a more safe and productive work environment.