Essential Daily Care, Storage, and Environmental Impacts on OTR Tyres

Off-the-Road (OTR) tyres used in mining, construction, and heavy equipment demand rigorous care to maximize safety, lifespan, and performance. Here’s a quick guide to daily practices and environmental factors:



1. Daily Storage & Care:

Cool & Dry: Store tyres away from direct sunlight, ozone sources (e.g., generators), and moisture. UV/ozone accelerates rubber cracking.

Upright Position: Stand unmounted tyres vertically on their treads; rotate them monthly to prevent flat spots. Never stack tyres flat.

Clean & Covered: Remove mud/debris before storage. Use breathable covers if light exposure is unavoidable.

Inspect Regularly: Check for cracks, cuts, or abnormal wear daily before use.

2. Temperature Impacts:

Pressure Fluctuations: Tire pressure drops ~1-2% per 6°C (10°F) temperature decrease. Cold environments risk dangerous underinflation.

Heat Risks: High temperatures or heavy loads elevate internal heat/pressure. Never reduce pressure on hot tyres – this causes underinflation when cooled.

Rule: Always check/adjust pressure when tyres are cold (before operation or ≥3 hours after stopping).

3. Terrain & Road Conditions:

Rocks/Debris: Cause cuts, impacts, and punctures. Use reinforced casings; maintain correct pressure to minimize damage.

Abrasive Surfaces (e.g., asphalt): Accelerate tread wear. Harder compounds improve longevity.

Mud/Soft Ground: Require deep treads for traction. Low pressure increases slippage/heat; high pressure reduces grip.

Mixed/Rough Terrain: Increases flexing and heat generation. Inspect frequently for hidden damage.

Key Takeaway:

Daily pressure checks (when cold!), proper storage, and terrain-aware maintenance are non-negotiable for OTR tyre safety and efficiency. Neglect invites premature failure, downtime, and safety hazards. Consult manufacturer guidelines for tyre-specific care.



Why this works:

Concise & Scannable: Uses bullet points and bold text for critical warnings.

Action-Oriented: Focuses on practical steps (e.g., "store upright," "check pressure cold").

Simplifies Science: Explains temperature/pressure relationships without complex calculations.

Prioritizes Safety: Highlights "NEVER" actions (stacking flats, bleeding hot tyres).

Connects Cause & Effect: Clearly links terrain types to specific tyre stresses.

Universal Language: Avoids overly technical terms (e.g., "ply rating," "carcass").

This format ensures essential knowledge is accessible to operators, fleet managers, and technicians alike.