Airgo Systems L.L.C., a manufacturer and distributor of commercial tire monitoring, maintenance and inflation systems, has unveiled a fleet-friendly constant tire inflation system with a five-year, unlimited miles warranty.
When a tire loses pressure, a series of check valves automatically detects it, Airgo explained. The system then immediately draws air from the vehicle's pneumatic system and directs it to each tire requiring air, even as the truck is moving.
The air pressure is delivered via the trailer's hollow axle housing (or pressure tubing for non-pressurized applications), Airgo said. Finally, the air moves through the hub assembly and into the tires. It is completely isolated from the brake system. The driver becomes aware of tire problems via a warning light mounted on the trailer in sight of the driver's rearview mirror.
The system features stationary hub components and what Airgo claimed is the only venting process in the industry that does not jeopardize vital wheel-end components. There are no moving components in the hub area, reducing the risk of pressurizing and/or damaging the hub area while extending the life of the system, according to Airgo.
A case-hardened steel and carbon graphite rotary seal is installed outside the hub and vents externally. The firm said external venting eliminates the risk of hub pressurization, which enables fleet maintenance professionals to maintain proper inflation levels without jeopardizing wheel-end components.
The company said it designed this tire inflation system with maintenance and OEM professionals in mind. The system's patented, removable expansion plug for sealing the axle installs in less than two hours, does not require specialized tools and can be easily removed for periodic cleaning of the axle. All hubcap components are sealed to eliminate water or debris from entering the hub area.
The system's electrical switch also is environmentally sealed, providing protection from the elements and eliminating dangerous spiking and sparks.
``Airgo Systems understands that existing tire inflation systems do not fully meet the demands of commercial trucking fleets,'' said Tony Ingram, president of Airgo Systems in a prepared statement. ``We bring years of experience to the commercial tire inflation market and are committed to partnering with our customers to ensure we over-deliver in terms of value and quality, which is why we back this commitment with an unprecedented five-year unlimited mile warranty.''
Airgo is part of the Dominion Group, based in Edmond. The company sells tire inflation products to commercial, long-haul vehicles including tankers, intermodals, refrigerated and specialty trailers.