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16 October 2024
Sealing Clamps Solve Air-Seal Issue for Challenging Wheel Assemblies 

Launched in 2016, and now in their 6th generation of development, Otraco’s Sealing Clamps are the go-to product for achieving a reliable seal on challenging wheel assemblies. 

Background 

The challenge was first identified with the introduction of hybrid size tyres for Caterpillar 793F haul trucks in 2016. A solution was needed to achieve a successful seal during the tyre fitment process on double-gutter for 32” rims. 

Costly Problem  

The challenge was causing a significant operational problem for mining operators due to substantial downtime during tyre changes leading to increased costs. Furthermore, the lack of a reliable method for achieving a seal in this scenario raised safety concerns for site teams, who were forced to rely on trial and error to complete the tyre change. A solution had to be found. 

Sealing Clamps For 32” Rims 

To solve the problem, Otraco's team developed a fit-for-purpose Sealing Clamp to achieve an air-seal for tyres mounted on double gutter and OVM / integral gutter type rims. 

The new Sealing Clamps secured the outer facing bead seat band against the outer O-ring, enabling tyre handlers to manipulate and secure the inner bead seat band against the inner O-ring to achieve an air-seal. 

The new specialised tooling also enabled tyre fitters to inflate tyres safely and efficiently, without the need to employ alternative methods.  

Now The Industry Standard  

Designed to accommodate a variety of rim sizes and configurations, Otraco Sealing Clamps have become the standard tool adopted by the Australian mining industry for achieving a reliable seal on challenging wheel assemblies. 

Next Generation 

With a focus on continual improvement, the latest generation of Sealing Clamps, released in 2022, feature a reduced plate thickness combined with a reinforced German steel alloy designed to enhance material resistance while minimising tool weight. This innovation helps reduce manual handling risks and improves overall user-friendliness for site teams. 

The screw shaft diameter has also been reinforced to withstand higher levels of stress compression, supporting a combined working load limit of 1,500 kg (500 kg per unit). 

Industrial Product Range 

The Sealing Clamps are offered as part of Otraco’s extensive Industrial Product range. In use across mining operations worldwide, the Industrial Product range includes over 40 specialised tooling products. 

Technical Specifications 

👇 Download the Specification Sheet for Sealing Clamps. 

More Information 

To find out more reach out to our Senior Project Engineer, Walter Frate or our Technical Manager, Tony Cutler

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