Michelin tyres make a difference for Bath Stone Group

Move to Michelin X-Mine D2 radial tyres improves tyre longevity for Stoke Hill underground mine

The Bath Stone Group is reaping the benefits of a change in tyre policy that has seen tyre longevity on their underground loader shovels rise by 800 per cent, significantly increasing productivity at Stoke Hill Mine.

The move has seen its two Wagner ST2D underground loader shovels switch from budget Asian tyres to Michelin X-Mine D2 radial tyres.

Each of the two loader shovels is in operation for approximately 20-25h a week, clearing waste inside the mine on a very abrasive working surface. This harsh environment means the machines require sturdy tyres to avoid punctures and rapid wear, which in turn can lead to machine downtime and waste build-up, and subsequently stop the mining operation.

The low-cost Protector tyres being used on the machines until August 2009 were lasting between 50-250h, with an average life of 10 working days – and in several cases a new tyre was completely worn out after just one day.

Matt Johnston, training officer at Bath Stone Group, said: ‘There were constant punctures, and when we were really driving the machines hard, the Protector tyres were flexing, distorting and overheating. We were using these tyres because we didn’t realize there was a better alternative. The constant delay with bringing machines to the surface for new tyres was a major disruption to the operation.

‘Then we bought a pair of reconditioned machines from France – and the Michelin X-Mine D2 radial tyres on them were simply a world apart. We’d bought them part-worn at 250h – and they lasted 3,000h.

Mr Johnston contacted Michelin and a representative was sent to discuss Bath Stone’s requirements and inspect the mine’s working surface and machinery. The Michelin representative confirmed that the X-Mine D2s were the ideal tyres for the mine, and presented a proposal highlighting the difference in productivity and economy between the two tyre brands.

Conservative projections showed that the Michelin X-Mine D2 radial tyres were likely to achieve at least 2,000h in operation, in comparison to the Protectors’ 250h. Although the cost of fitting the loader shovels with Michelin tyres was three times more than with Protector tyres, the actual cost per 100h was £62.50 per tyre versus £160 for the Protector tyres. This meant an estimated saving of £1,185 per tyre per 1,500h.

Mr Johnston commented: ‘Switching to Michelin tyres was the best thing we ever did. It’s saved us money, time and stress. They’ve been lasting even longer than their projected life span and we haven’t had a single puncture since the changeover. The visit from Michelin’s local earthmover account manager has transformed our operation.’

Michelin X-Mine D2 tyres are designed with a deep tread and damage-resistant buttressed shoulders and sidewalls for increased productivity. Their exceptional longevity is explained by their multiple steel belts, cut-resistant rubber compounds and heavy-duty casing, while the radial design protects machine components and makes for a smooth, comfortable ride.

Designed for the ultimate in traction, flotation, stability and comfort, the X-Mine D2 tyres are renowned for their resistance and durability. Easy to repair and offering low rolling resistance, they ensure low operating costs. Their fuel economy and longevity also make them an environmentally-friendly choice of tyre for plant ranging from large forklifts and above-ground loaders to underground haulers and loading shovels.