Bridgestone Corporation has announced its new ‘Smart On-site’ mining solutions program, which it will exhibit at MINExpo International 2024 in Las Vegas from September 24-26, 2024. With this year’s show theme, ‘MOVE MORE WITH LESS,’ Bridgestone will showcase Smart On-site and “its easy-to-manage, turn-key and customisable blend of premium tyre products, mobility solutions and industry leading service and support in a single transaction for mining operations.”
“At Bridgestone, we believe that unlocking a mining business’s true potential lies in enhanced connectivity,” said Rob Seibert, President, Off-the-Road, US and Canada, Bridgestone Americas. “With Bridgestone Smart On-site, we offer a comprehensive approach to mining operations, seamlessly integrating our products, solutions, and expertise to optimise performance and ensure sustained excellence.”
The launch of Smart On-site the company says marks the next evolution of Bridgestone’s vision for the mining segment, highlighting enhanced connectivity and flexibility to meet the unique needs of all fleets. The new Smart On-site program unlocks additional value for customers through the strategic integration and amplification of three core pillars:
Amplify Value of Dan-Totsu Products: First, it says Bridgestone products provide unmatched durability, reliability, productivity, and sustainability. Each tyre is fundamentally designed with specialised features and technology to help operators move more with less. Within the booth, Bridgestone will showcase two tyres from its industry leading MASTERCORE lineup, the VZTB and VREV, and debut three new tyres for the surface and subterranean mining segments.
Amplify Trust: Second, the Bridgestone service network it says is the largest in the industry, offering comprehensive training and support to provide mining customers with the knowledge needed to be successful. Bridgestone deploys a team of technical sales and engineering solutions professionals equipped with a deep understanding and expertise in tires and digital solutions to assist online and on-site. In the booth, the company will showcase its full package of Engineering Solutions including heat and weight studies, in- and out-of-service inspections, GPS assessments, G-force studies, drone surveys, site assessments and consultations.
Amplify Data Value: Third, advanced digital solutions enable fleets to optimise operations with data insights that maximise performance and sustainability. Bridgestone offers tyre monitoring and asset management solutions for mining fleets, which provide end-to-end support that creates smarter work environments. At MINExpo, Bridgestone will showcase its advanced digital solutions, including iTrack and Toolbox, to demonstrate the power of data to drive actionable insights and decision-making.
Smart On-site programs are co-created with customers and utilise the latest operational data to establish a one-of-a-kind suite of solutions for each customer to address pain points. This comprehensive approach enables operators to work optimally and leverage real-time and historical data insights to continuously improve. Smart On-site is the latest example of Bridgestone’s commitment to enhancing the mining industry with modern technologies and data-driven insights.
Officially making their debuts at MINExpo, the all-new Bridgestone V-Steel Mining Smooth Tread (VMMS) and V-Steel Mining D-Lug (VMDL) feature technology innovations for the underground hard rock segment. The two new premium radial tyres are designed specifically for load haul dump (LHD) loaders, offering underground vehicles durable options that can withstand harsh environments. For additional flexibility, each tyre is manufactured with a unique tread pattern to support the different terrains of underground mining. The VMMS is encased with a smooth pattern, and the VMDL has a lug pattern.
The VMMS and VMDL are engineered for LHD loaders that require the load capacity of a 3-star rating, while maintaining the benefits of air pressure from a 2-star rating. Bridgestone subterranean products deliver enhanced benefits with a strengthened bead structure, enabling 15% more load capacity and an 8% larger footprint for underground vehicles.
New specialised compounds within the tread of both tires help deliver 10% longer wear life and higher heat resistance. The VMMS tyre features a vertical sidewall shape and wider outer belt, leading to a 24% increase in cut resistance compared to the previous model.
In addition to innovative design features, the new VMMS and VMDL can be supported by Bridgestone’s tyre management systems. The VMMS is available in sizes 26.5R25, 29.5R29, and 35/65R33, and the VMDL is available in 26.5R25 and 29.5R29.
In addition to the VMMS and VMDL, Bridgestone will launch the new Firestone Super Rock Grip™ Deep Tread Loader Dozer 2 (SRG DT LD 2), one of the company’s largest tyre products, for the surface mining segment. The SRG DT LD 2 is designed specifically for loader applications and will be available later this year. The tyre is manufactured at the company’s Bloomington, Illinois tyre plant in two sizes, 58/85-57 and 70/70-57, and is approved for Komatsu and Caterpillar loaders. The new tyre is designed with several specialised features to enhance load performance, including:
Longer Tyre Life: the SRG DT LD 2 features an extra-heavy duty non-directional tread design, providing a 31% increase in tyre life over its previous model.
Improved Durability and Comfort: In addition to the non-directional tread design, the SRG DT LD 2 is manufactured with a new casing construction to improve cut resistance and provide better stability for more productivity and ride comfort.
Reduced Tramming Time: Engineered with new compounds and construction, the tyre has improved heat resistance for a 90% better tramming time.
