Meritor intros automatic tire inflation system for linehaul

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Feb. 20, 2015) — Meritor Inc. has introduced what it's calling the trucking industry's first automatic tire inflation system for linehaul tractors.

The company debuted its MTIS Tire Inflation System for Trucks — aimed at helping reduce the total cost of ownership — at the Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) 2015 Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition in Nashville.

The MTIS system automatically monitors tire pressure while a vehicle is in motion and inflates an underinflated tire. If there are issues requiring continuous inflation, the system alerts the driver to check the tire or find service as soon as possible, according to Meritor, noting the system “extends tire and wheel component life, improves fuel efficiency and reduces tire wear and maintenance.”

“We listened carefully to customers who have expressed a need to lower costs due to tire underinflation,” said Jay Craig, Meritor's president and chief operating officer. “We're leading the industry

in automatic tire inflation systems, and our MTIS system is one of many new products the market can expect to see from Meritor that will help end-users operate their vehicles more efficiently.”

Citing data from tire manufacturers, Meritor said underinflated tires can decrease tread life up to 20 percent and impact tire retreading.

“Maintaining proper pressure requires constant attention,” said Ken Hogan, general manager, Rear Drivetrain for Meritor. “In addition to reducing tire and fuel costs, the MTIS system enhances performance. Tire companies have stated that up to 80 percent of roadside tire failures are a direct result of creeping air loss.”

Although pressure leakage up to 2 percent per week is common for tire systems, the company said additional pressure loss can be expected with puncture wounds from nails, a contaminated rim flange or bad valve stem.

Troy, Mich.-based Meritor began validation testing with several fleets last year and will conclude them in 2015. The company expects MTIS to be available to OEMs in North America on a limited basis in 2016, and said the system also has global application in the future.

The company is showcasing its product portfolio in booth No. 910 at the TMC meeting.

It posted more information about the MTIS system on YouTube. To access a video click here; an animation is available by clicking here.

Meritor manufactures products serving commercial truck, trailer, off-highway, defense, specialty and aftermarket customers.