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
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JANUARY 2018
Site inspection
A tyre being repaired at Kal Tire’s Middelburg facility.