Plant Equipment and Hire January 2018 | Page 30

MAINTENANCE From left: Andre Lewies (group support manager of Kal Tire southern Africa), John Martin (incumbent vice-president of Kal Tire southern Africa), and Deon Wehmeyer (sales and operations manager for the Mpumalanga region of Kal Tire). accompanying damage to the rim, tyre, and equipment, not even mentioning the risk to human life. Once the new tyre is fitted, it is inflated to the recommended cold-air pressure.” Following the tyre inspection, an analysis of the mining site can be carried out to determine the cause of the initial damage. A proper road inspection is necessary. Check for debris and whether there are any large stones in the road that could pose a hazard and possibly damage the tyre and the equipment. At the same time, the conditions of the loading area need to be checked, and an assessment has to be done to determine what needs to be improved to prevent further damage to tyres. “It is all about managing the asset,” says Lewies. Haul roads are often the biggest cause of tyre failure or damage. “Where there is no proper road maintenance, tyres normally 28 JANUARY 2018 Site inspection A tyre being repaired at Kal Tire’s Middelburg facility.