The handling of earthmover and large haulage tires require proper handling when transporting and moving them. Improper handling can potentially damage tires from the weight of the load and misuse of tools and equipment. The majority of the time, special equipment is required to handle these tires.
Type of equipment to handle earthmover and haulage tires:
· Forklift
· Mechanical loader
· Craned with textile straps
Key areas of the tire to protect:
· Bead area: center circle where the wheel sits. Damage in this area leads to shorter tire life
· Sidewall area: can be pierced or cut easily if mishandled
· Inner chamber area: can be pierced or cut easily if mishandled
Avoid these handlings
Don’t use tools such as forks from a forklift, chains, or hooks to lift. This causes the rubber to tear easily with unrepairable damage.
Don’t use metal slings, chains, cables, or cords as they can damage the beads.
Proper handling – step by step
Use a smooth clamp and handle by the tire tread with ease on the sidewall.
Use a boom attachment on a forklift and handle through the tire’s center
Use only flat textile slings or straps and secure through the tire center
Use hands or clamps with pins and only handle by the tread area