The cost of road calls, tire repairs and ruined casings can mess up the workday for both maintenance managers and finance officers. At the root of these problems is tire inflation maintenance, a sore subject for even the most dutiful driver because of the time and effort required.
To the rescue come tire inflation and monitoring systems. While some merely warn of low pressure or ease the walk-around inspection, others keep tires inflated and also warn the driver as soon as a leak develops.
Airgo
www.tireinflation.com
The Airgo automatic tire inflation system is designed to check tire pressure at each individual valve stem so as not to extend tire pressure to the hub. If a hose should break, the tire will not go flat, and the system will maintain tire pressure in the remaining tires, the company says; to continue maintaining the other tires on the vehicle, simply disconnect the hose from the rotary union.
According to Airgo, the system has no moving parts within the hub area, so there is less chance of leaks in the lubrication compartment, reducing the possibility of pressurizing and/or damaging the hub seal. The vent/seal system offers venting to the atmosphere, keeping contaminants and water out of the hub cavity.
Airgo says the return on investment on its system often is compared to the cost of a single road call.
Commercial Vehicle Systems Group of Dana Corp.
www.dana.com
The Dana SmartWave TPMS (Tire Pressure Management System) is designed to accurately measure the pressure and temperature of each tire constantly. It transmits data wirelessly to a receiver mounted on the tractor or truck and displays it in the cab. The system can be installed either as original equipment or aftermarket.
The Spicer TIMS (Tire Inflation and Monitor System) is designed to monitor and maintain proper tire pressure on trailers; it measures inflation pressure and notifies the operator when pressure drops to the desired setting. Its seals and lines remain unpressurized except when inflating, thus preventing premature seal failure, the company says.
