BKT has unveiled a range of heavy-duty OTR tyres designed to support continuous use in open-pit mining, aiming to reduce unplanned downtime and operational costs.
Open-pit mining places extreme mechanical and thermal stress on equipment. To meet these demands, BKT has introduced application-specific tyres that prioritise structural durability, safety, and long service life, targeting a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) for fleet managers.
Open-pit operations involve abrasive terrain, steep gradients, and sharp debris, with tyres often operating in continuous multi-shift cycles. In this context, tyres function as structural components, not consumables. BKT's EARTHMAX range has been developed with this in mind.
The EARTHMAX SR 46, a radial tyre designed for rigid dump trucks, features an All-Steel casing with specialised belts to resist punctures and structural damage. Its tread includes lug blocks and a circumferential groove, enhancing grip and minimising surface wear during cornering.
Also included in the line-up is the EARTHMAX SR 459, an All-Steel radial tyre designed for long-haul dump trucks operating on unstable or rocky ground. It features a multi-ply steel belt structure and extra-deep tread to maximise abrasion resistance and extend service life under heavy load conditions.
According to BKT's Field Engineering Director Piero Torassa, the company starts each design with field analysis: "We study the loads, speeds, temperatures, and terrain types to offer tailored solutions. Our mining range is the outcome of years of testing and direct engagement with operators."
This focus on adaptive design translates into tyres that are aligned with real operational demands, helping reduce risks of premature wear, improve traction on challenging surfaces, and maintain vehicle stability in high-impact zones.
Beyond product development, BKT is also investing in decision-support tools for fleet optimisation. These include data collection systems and consultancy services aimed at helping mine operators select the right tyre setup based on terrain, logistics, and environmental parameters.
Currently active in over 160 countries, BKT positions its vertically integrated manufacturing and broad Off-Highway range as key advantages for customers working in demanding sectors such as mining.
Open-pit mining remains a critical test case for OTR tyre performance. BKT's efforts to integrate structural reinforcement, wear resistance, and data-driven selection mark a growing industry trend: engineering tyres not only for durability but as data-informed assets within an operational system. As mining firms increasingly seek to cut downtime and manage fuel and maintenance costs, tyres like the EARTHMAX series highlight the role of smart design in heavy-duty productivity.
Tagged with: OTR tyres, open-pit mining, EARTHMAX SR 46, BKT tyres, rigid dump trucks, tyre durability, off-highway tyres, fleet maintenance
Disclaimer: This content may include forward-looking statements. Views expressed are not verified or endorsed by Tyre News Media.
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