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.

Mining operators are under increasing pressure to meet production targets while navigating rising fuel costs, equipment availability constraints and growing regulatory and stakeholder expectations around environmental performance. As the industry pursues more efficient and lower-emissions operations, tyre management remains an often under-utilised opportunity for improvement.

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.

By contrast, proactive and predictive tyre strategies – developed in collaboration with original equipment manufacturers, tyre suppliers and service partners, and supported by data and digital technologies – can extend tyre life, reduce fuel consumption and improve productivity without requiring major capital investment.

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.

To learn more, read the full white paper: Unlocking hidden synergies – Kal Tire Mining Tire Group

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