Hendrickson Launches New Automatic Tyre Inflation Unit

US supplier of truck suspension and related equipment, Hendrickson Trailer Suspension Systems, have introduced a new variation of its automatic tyre inflation system for trailer units. Named the Tiremaax CP (Constant Pressure), the new unit features a more simple design than the original Tiremaax, which has now become known as the Tiremaax EC (Electronic Control).

Both Tiremaax systems draw from the trailer’s air supply to help keep trailer tyres properly inflated. The mechanical Tiremaax CP unit continually checks tyre pressure without pressurising the axle or wheel ends and employs a pneumatic controller to direct air to tyres that fall below a preset pressure level. A signal light illuminates only when attention is required to alert the operator of tyre or system leaks.

The unit’s mechanical design, free from electronics, transducers and pressure switches, allows for easy maintenance of the Tiremaax CP. The CP requires no special tools to adjust tyre pressure settings and operates on either 12- or 24-volt electrical systems.

To highlight the economic sense of employing a system such as the Tiremaax, Hendrickson quote the results of US government studies confirming that properly inflated tyres increase fuel economy and decrease tyre related costs approximately US$800 annually per tractor-trailer combination. The company adds that these studies further reveal that proper inflation can prevent about one road call a year per tractor-trailer combination.

“Tiremaax can quickly pay for itself. Potential increased fuel mileage and reduced maintenance and replacement costs for tyres all contribute to fleet savings. In addition, Tiremaax can extend tyre casing life and prevent downtime and costly road service,” reports Matt Wilson, Hendrickson controls business unit manager.