14.10.2024

Safe in Workshop, Safe on Site: How AI and Data can Revolutionize Tire Health Monitoring 

It was a regular Tuesday morning at a Delta Air Lines tire maintenance facility near the Atlanta airport. Tire technicians in the workshop were working on wheel components that were being disassembled for maintenance. The next moment, a tire exploded, killing two workers and injuring one.  

An expert spoke to a local news channel about two ways this tragedy could have happened: “Either proper procedures failed to be followed, or the tire had weakened from repeated landings and cracked and burst.1

This happened in the airline industry, which, however, is also known to maintain rigorous safety standards – just as in the mining sector. None of the industries are warranted against incidents, but it is the industry’s duty to make the sector and its employees confident in their adherence to the best safety standards. 

Additionally, data reveals that after fuel, tires are the next biggest expense for mining companies. That’s why it’s important to get the most out of off-the-road (OTR) tires. Keeping them in good shape not only helps with smooth and safe operations but also boosts the bottom line for any mining project. 

Sustainability is also in focus. According to Tyre Stewardship Australia’s 2020 Off-the-Road Used Tyre Analysis report, the Australian mining industry alone generated 68,100 metric tons of used tires in 2019. Of that number, 93% or 63,300 t, were disposed of onsite (piled up or buried), 3% were sent to landfill (2,000 t), and just 1% (700 t) were recycled, with the remainder stockpiled or used in civil engineering.

The graph below represents the most common causes of tire failure2

Safety through regular maintenance 

Tires are subjected to some of the harshest conditions imaginable. With massive haul trucks and loaders navigating rough terrain, maintaining tire integrity is crucial for safety and efficiency. The key aspects of tire maintenance in mining include: 

  • Regular inspections: Tires must be frequently inspected for signs of wear and damage. This includes checking for cuts, punctures, and irregular wear patterns. Timely detection of issues can prevent more significant problems and ensure safe operations. 
  • Proper inflation: Maintaining correct tire pressure is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires can lead to increased wear and reduced safety. 
  • Tire rotation: Regularly rotating tires helps to ensure even wear and prolongs their life. This is especially important in mining, where uneven wear can lead to premature tire failure. 
  • Data-driven insights: Advanced tire management systems use data analytics to monitor tire health. By tracking performance metrics and analyzing wear patterns, operators can make informed decisions about tire maintenance and replacement. 

Innovations in tire management 

To address the challenges of tire maintenance, the mining industry is increasingly turning to innovative solutions: 

  • AI-powered inspection: Modern technologies, such as AI-powered autonomic tire inspection, utilize thermal imaging to assess tire conditions. These systems can detect anomalies that may not be visible to the naked eye, providing a more comprehensive understanding of tire health. 
  • Sustainable tire solutions: The industry is also focusing on sustainability. Innovations in tire compounds and materials aim to improve durability and reduce environmental impact.
  • Enhanced safety protocols: The mining industry is reinforcing safety protocols. Comprehensive training and adherence to maintenance procedures are critical in preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of personnel. 

SYMX.AI is at the forefront of tire health management with its AI-powered predictive maintenance solutions. Our technology provides real-time updates on tire conditions by analyzing data from sensors and historical performance metrics. This predictive capability allows for proactive maintenance, enabling operators to address potential tire failures before they occur leading to reduced downtime. 

As the mining industry evolves, maintaining effective tire management practices remains crucial. By integrating innovative AI solutions and upholding stringent safety standards, the industry can enhance safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability. 

For more information on how SYMX.AI’s predictive maintenance solutions can transform your tire management practices, book a demo with us.  

  1. Former airline mechanic explains how Delta TechOps ‘tire explosion’ incident could have happened – 11Alive ↩︎
  2. Galatia, “Investigating the Cause of Premature Tyre Failure of Open-Pit Mine Dump Trucks”, 20-42 ↩︎