Brookland Sand & Aggregates in synergy with BKT for a sustainable future

In the picturesque setting of Cornwall in southwest England, home to ancient legends and enchanting landscapes, the quarrying and mining industries are deeply rooted in the county's history and identity.
Ancillary Equipment / March 18, 2024
By Guy Woodford
Brookland Sand & Aggregates of Saint Austell, Cornwall, has chosen BKT tyres from the EARTHMAX range to meet the needs of its daily operations. Pic: BKT

Littlejohns Pit is an iconic and living symbol of a centuries-old industrial legacy, where china clay and sand have been longtime hallmarks in shaping the local landscape.

Amid this scenery, Brookland Sand & Aggregates of Saint Austell shines as a virtuous example of cooperation and sustainability. Since March 2010, the company has sold over 2.3 million tonnes of sand and aggregates to local and national customers. With one-third of its business run outside the county and a substantial sales volume in the London market, Brookland Sand & Aggregates has established itself as a leader in its field.

The company processes 'Stent', a by-product of kaolin mining, into environmentally friendly secondary sand and aggregates. This commitment reflects a deep sense of ecological consciousness aimed at preserving natural resources and reducing environmental impact—principles that find a strong ally in BKT, the leading Off-Highway tyre manufacturer. BKT provides Brookland Sand & Aggregates with tyres that ensure safe and continuous operations, thus avoiding downtime and maximising production efficiency.

Brookland Sand & Aggregates' approach toward innovation and reliability in its day-to-day operations greatly benefits from its employees' professional experience and personal stories. One such key figure is Alfie Johns, whose ties to the area and the mining industry go far beyond his current role. "I grew up in this area, being born in a village not far from here. Ever since we went to school, working in this area has been among the top employment opportunities," Alfie says. "It runs in the family: my grandfather and father have all worked in the clay industry, which is now also part of our business."

This deep sense of belonging and dedication is apparent in Alfie's care and attention to his job, especially when it comes to choosing the right equipment to ensure safe and efficient operations. The decision to rely on BKT tyres reflects a business choice and the pursuit of a family legacy tied to the land and its processing.

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BKT EARTHMAX tyres on one of Brookland Sand & Aggregates' wheeled loaders. Pic: BKT

Alfie adds another aspect that speaks for the effectiveness of BKT tyres in Brookland Sand & Aggregates' daily operations: "We have relied on BKT for about 6 or 7 years, and now we are testing a three-star tyre on our dump trucks to increase their durability. Their impressive performance over the years has only confirmed my confidence in the brand. We particularly appreciate their wear resistance and versatility under changeable weather conditions - qualities that are essential to our operations. Trust, reliability and cost-effectiveness are the pillars when it comes to choosing our tyres."

The impact of weather on daily operations is a central theme for Brookland Sand & Aggregates Ltd, which considers weather conditions to be one of its main challenges. "On rainy days, our sandy roads turn into slippery, heavy paths, while the sun dries them out, leaving behind thick layers of dust," Alfie explains, emphasising how the company must constantly adapt to these variables. "Despite such challenges, our commitment to sustainability and environmental compliance remains steadfast. We always ensure that our operations are both efficient and environmentally responsible."

This environmental awareness, combined with the need to operate effectively in all weather conditions, makes choosing BKT tires a key component in Brookland's operational strategy. "My previous positive experience with BKT has reinforced the decision to adopt them here at Brookland as well. Their reliability in various conditions from heavy rain to drought enables us to proceed with our operations without any interruptions while keeping our commitment to efficiency and sustainability."

First-hand testimony from those working in the field is important for understanding the value of the company's choices. Jake Cleave, owner Marshall Claeve's son and a young dump truck driver at Brookland, is one of the company's newest workforces, which brings in all the enthusiasm and dedication that reflects his family's generational commitment to the industry. "I have been working here for about three years, and I can say that using BKT tyres has significantly improved our operational efficiency," Jake says. "Their grip and stability, even at the most adverse weather conditions, make it possible for us to maintain operational continuity without downtime."

Jake highlights how sustainability is at the core of Brookland's business: "The reusability of by-products in our production cycle is not only an economic benefit but also contributes to reducing the environmental impact of our operations. And in BKT, we have found a partner who shares our vision of a more sustainable future."

Brookland Sand & Aggregates has chosen BKT tyres from the EARTHMAX range to meet the needs of its daily operations. EARTHMAX SR45, EARTHMAX SR50, and EARTHMAXSR49 are prominent among the patterns employed.

The EARTHMAX SR 45 M is an All-Steel radial tyre specifically designed for rigid dump trucks. It provides excellent traction and is ideal for long-distance operations.

The EARTHMAX SR 50 (L-5) is an All Steel radial tyre specifically designed for loaders. The durable casing and sidewall protectors are ideal for the most demanding operations. EARTHMAX SR 50 is made of a special cut-resistant compound that reduces wear, ensuring a longer tyre life. Operators also appreciate its excellent traction combined with stability and comfortable ride.

The EARTHMAX SR 49 (L-4) is an All-Steel radial tyre designed for loaders, dozers, low-profile dump trucks (LPDTs), and LHD loaders. It ensures excellent performance in demanding mining operations where excellent traction and stability are essential. The tyre has a directional design and is made of a particularly cut-resistant compound that provides excellent durability.

The partnership between Brookland Sand & Aggregates and BKT epitomises how sustainability and performance can go hand in hand, even in the most demanding working conditions. BKT tyres have been selected for their durability and reliability and are vital for meeting Brookland Sand & Aggregates' day-to-day operational challenges and ensuring continuity and safety. Not only does this strategic alliance meet the needs of a demanding industry, but it also lays the foundations for a more environmentally conscious approach. 

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