Joanna James
Are you looking to increase efficiency while decreasing costs in terms of repair and maintenance that your company faces when it comes to tires? Here are 5 quick tips on how you can achieve both.
A common misconception is that the default tire pressure should remain the same regardless of the material that is being loaded. Damp sand can weigh up to 3,400 pounds while two 18 inch rocks can only weigh up to 2,500 pounds, hence according to the application, your tire pressure should also change. To avoid instances where you're using the wrong tire pressure for the application, check the guides and load/ pressure tables provided by your tire manufacturer such as GRI Tires or contact your tire provider for advice on the right tire pressure. Ensuring the tire pressure matches the application will optimise the tire's use and life. A well-inflated tire will also provide a high level of traction. If your application changes quite often, it is advised that you should inflate the tire to hold the heaviest load.
It is imperative that the operators who handle the construction machines understand that simply because the machines were designed to operate in rough conditions, the tires are not indestructible. Tires are susceptible to damage from sharp objects and debris, and drivers should always avoid running over them. Machine operators and handlers should also be informed that relying solely on the machine's forward motion to fill the bucket will mean that there is a higher chance there'll be a loss of traction resulting in spinning tires, which in turn, would mean a faster wear and tear of the tires. Operators should use the machine's hydraulics to crowd the material when filling the bucket.
Differential locks are a machine's best friend, especially when one wheel momentarily loses contact with the surface or rolls over a slippery surface, where the differential lock will increase traction. However, it should also be noted that differential locks will increase the wear and tear of tires when taking turns. Therefore, instruct operators of the machines to disengage the differential locks when in situations where additional traction isn't needed.
Proper tire maintenance needs to be carried out before operating the machine. This should either be carried out by the operator of the machine or the maintenance staff who is required to inspect the tires for cuts, irregular wear on the tread and tire shoulders, cuts, and any other faults. The earlier these issues are detected, the lesser it will cost to repair. Industrial tires require daily maintenance to be conducted due to the tough working conditions it operates in, and a routine check will ensure that your tires are used to their maximum potential with a longer lifespan.
Avoid running your tires over water or on wet surfaces as much as possible as water tends to act as a lubricant which eventually makes it easy for objects to puncture or cut through the surface of tires.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
