SMART Memo

April 28, 2002

To whom it may concern:

Subject: RIMEX DE-FUZER Valve for Large off-highway Tubeless Tire Rims

 This memorandum outlines the position of the Surface Mining Association for Research and Technology (SMART) with respect to the Rimex De-Fuzer Valve for large off-highway tubeless rims related to the operation of mobile equipment in surface mining applications. SMART is a non-profit organization set up to promote research and collaboration among member companies.

 SMART members have extensively supported and continue to support programs at mine properties on behalf of industry.  The Large Tire User Group of the SMART organization has worked with RIMEX Supply Ltd. on a continued commitment to industry safety. This collaborative effort has led to the development of the DE-FUZER Valve. The DE-FUZER Valve is a temperature sensitive pressure relief valve (200° F, 190 psi) designed to release potentially dangerous air pressure build-up before catastrophic failures can occur. The DE-FUZER Valve is designed for use on all off-highway tubeless rims or wheels 25" diameter and greater.

 The member companies of SMART have supported the following position related to the use of the DE-FUZER Valve:

SMART supports and encourages use on a voluntary go forward approach amongst its members and the mining industry. This approach will see the increasing use of the Rimex De-Fuzer valve at our operations and ensure continued commitment amongst industry to use of the RIMEX DE-FUZER Valve or equivalent.

Respectfully,

Gerry Krause, Chairperson of  SMART

 cc          SMART members