Translogik: Helping To Keep Tyres in Top Condition

With tyre costs rising, it makes sense for hauliers and fleet managers to ensure that their tyres are maintained in A1 condition. And it is not just the cost of the tyre itself – properly maintained and inflated tyres can reduce fuel consumption. Translogik produces a range of tyre inspection solutions for fleet managers, including hand-held tread depth and pressure probe – the OTR probe can measure treads up to 130mm deep and pressures up to 190 psi. These are complemented by Translogik's own software, which provides the fleet operator with a totally automated tyre management and fleet inspection process, allowing a series of reports to be generated. These can include a work-to-do list, highlighting what maintenance work is required for each vehicle, and a Tread Depth and Tyre Pressure Analysis.

At Tyrexpo Africa, Translogik was showcasing what it described as “the future for tyre inspection”; the company has taken the latest technologies in wireless sensors, Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPMS) and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and combined them into a range of innovative products that provide fast, accurate, real-time data on tyre condition and performance. This not only reduces the time spent on inspecting tyres, but also helps maximise tyre life.

RFID is a new, improved version of the barcode, which replaces the current, external tyre marking systems. Translogik can provide RFID tags that are designed to be embedded in the tyre during manufacture, or patches that can be attached to the sidewall as an aftermarket solution. Both are flexible, to withstand tyre deformation during service and the data can be read at a distance of up to one metre. Neither solution requires an external power source to operate. RFID allows a quick and easy identification of the tyre and instant information recall, such as casing, inspection and retread histories. Each tyre’s serial number, dimensions, tread pattern, warranty and date of manufacture can be readily identified. Not only does this help improve maintenance, but it makes the tyre truly traceable and helps improve stock control and security.

TPMS provides continuous, real-time tyre pressure and temperature monitoring, leading to better maintenance and longer tyre life, as well as reducing the incidence of tyre failures through incorrect pressure and temperature. Low pressures and high temperatures are the main cause of tyre failures, says Translogik; an under-inflated tyre increases fuel consumption and can reduce tyre life by up to 60 per cent. If the under-inflation is not noticed and corrected, the increase in friction and temperature will lead to a blow-out, ruining the tyre and involving the vehicle in downtime. By monitoring and remedying any loss of pressure before this happens, the tyre can be saved and breakdown costs avoided.