Be a leader not a follower.

September 23, 2011

This is a simple but effective statement that was preached to me over and over growing up by my father. I don’t need to sit here and tell you we are in a constantly changing market at warp speed. If I do, you might need to check your pulse for a heartbeat.

I recently attended a tire convention where the key note speakers topic was entitled “Shift Happens”.  Call it what you will, evolution, adaptation or flexibility. If you’re not “Shifting” with your ever

Rubber Pricing – 4 surprising reasons why pricing may remain high

July 27, 2011

According to the International Rubber Study Group, world output of rubber increased around 10% in 2010 at 24.3 million tones.  Synthetic rubber and Natural Rubber was 55% and 45% respectively.  Supply and Demand may only be part of the story for current rubber prices according to a recent report by ANRPC (the 11-nation association of Natural Rubber Exporting Countries that make up 92% of natural rubber output).  Their recent report has noted four factors that can keep natural prices high during the short term. Short Term

1. OPEC

Mining – tire flatproofing saves money

July 1, 2011

With almost all tire prices continuing to increase, demand is simply not keeping up with supply as some large mining tires have already passed the $100,000 per piece on the spot market (see article here).    The solution?  Polyurethane Tire Fill will extend tire life,  increase productivity and reduce the cost of tire repair or replacement. See here for what mining equipment can be tire flatproofed:

Tire Fill Mining Equipment

Commonly referred to as foam fill, tire fill, and poly fill, Arnco's patented products

Start Clean!

June 24, 2011

One of  the most important aspects of getting into the tire fill business, is to start with the proper tire fill area.  The first step is a temperature controlled, ventilated room with plenty of good lighting that is easily accessible by a forklift. That is the great start, but keeping it clean and operational is an everyday process.  Educate your processors on the importance of being a professional, as well as keeping the work area safe and clean.  Tire filling is an easy job as long as you do the

Knowing Where Your MSDS Sheets are can Bring you Peace of Mind!

May 17, 2011

Your warehouse man nervously informs you there is someone to see you! Unfortunately it’s not Publishers Clearing House to present a big check. It’s your city Fire Marshall and a representative from the Environmental Protection Agency.

With a heavy case of cotton mouth, he explains how he dumped a full tote of fill into the adjoining street. After you catch your breath, the first thing you will probably be asked is:

Just the Facts, Mam!

April 26, 2011

At CRU Copper Conference, “Serious Tire Shortage Ahead”

April 8, 2011

Not unlike the tire shortage back in the mid-2000's, demand for very large tires in the mining industry may soon exceed supply.  "By the end of this year, or early next year, we will be in a potentially serious tire shortage situation," said Cat Global Mining President Chris Curfman. Much of the demand for larger mining equipment is coming from emerging markets such China, India and Russia, as well as to top Latin American markets Chile, Peru and Brazil "The whole mining industry is really on fire," said Curfman. "We're seeing a back-up in availability on some

CONEXPO-CON/AGG – A lot of good news, but some concerns

March 25, 2011

After walking the show and learning that this was one of the largest Conexpo's  in history with over 2,000 exhibitors and over 117,000 attendees, I hope this was a leading indicator that this slow but steady economic recovery we our having will continue. Among others,  Sandvik's Mining and Construction president, Thomas Schulz also seemed confident that the US and Global construction industry is now back on the path to growth. Most of the primary OTR tire manufacturers were there and here is a link to some of

CONEXPO-CON/AGG – An easy way to prepare!

March 17, 2011

For those heading off to Las Vegas next week for the CONEXPO-CON/AGG, you can not only save a lot of time, but strategically walk the exhibition by spending a few minutes here. We found this to be a very simple and interactive tool that will make your visit more productive and

TLC Challenge – Easier dismounting for 27.00 x 49′s

March 9, 2011

Upon a recent visit to a customer in the Midwest, I was approached by a energetic Tire Technician named Jake. It seems as though he remembered the challenge I gave him in March of 2010. You see, Jake, is the Technician responsible for changing large OTR tires in the field. I recall showing him a sample of TLC, (Tire Lube & Conditioner) and asking him to try the product and report back. He recently received a call to change out a couple of  2700 x 49's in which the product was installed. Jake said he was very impressed with the ease of the tire removal as well as the

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