In open-pit mining, loading and haulage typically account for around 50–60 per cent of total operating costs, making efficiency gains in this area critical to overall mine performance.
After fuel, tyres are usually the most expensive consumable in surface mining. A large metals operation can use up to 900 mining tyres each year, representing millions of dollars in operational expenditure. Preserving tyre life and improving tyre management practices is therefore a key lever for both cost control and operational resilience.
A new white paper from Kal Tire and Michelin explores how mining companies can unlock measurable cost savings while also reducing emissions through smarter tyre management strategies. Rather than viewing cost reduction and sustainability as competing priorities, the paper argues that well-managed tyre programs can deliver both outcomes simultaneously.
In surface mining, tyres influence not only operating costs but also fuel consumption and emissions. Poorly managed or reactive tyre practices can lead to premature wear, increased rolling resistance, higher fuel use and avoidable Scope 1 and Scope 3 emissions.
The Kal Tire–Michelin white paper outlines practical, data-driven approaches that help mining operations reduce emissions and lower costs through more effective tyre management.