Fleet operators in the logistics industry are well aware of the significant investment required to maintain a fleet of heavy-duty commercial vehicles, especially trucks. Among various aspects that impact their return on investment, tyre maintenance and optimizing tyre performance plays a crucial role, with correct inflation pressure being the key factor.
Proper tyre inflation is a simple yet powerful practice that positively influences a truck’s performance in multiple ways. By ensuring consistent and accurate tyre inflation, extend the life of tyres, improve casing durability, and enhance overall tyre performance. Not to mention, this smart habit can also lead to reduced fuel consumption and provide a smoother, more comfortable ride for drivers.
In fact, the cost of maintaining tyres throughout their lifespan often exceeds the cost of rebuilding the truck’s engine. Tyres are an investment that directly impacts profitability because without them, trucks simply won’t move. The consequences of tyre failure while a truck is in operation can be incredibly expensive, from safety risks to repairing damages caused by such incidents.
Did you know that:
- Running a tyre with 10% less than its ideal pressure means it wears out a whopping 12% faster than it should! Not only that, but it also guzzles an extra 2 – 3% of fuel due to increased rolling resistance.
- Even a slight difference of ONLY 35 Kpa between dual tyres can lead to a 10% decrease in wheel-bearing life. It may not seem like much, but it adds up!
To optimize the performance of tyres and ultimately reduce costs, here are five essential tips to extend the life of commercial truck tyres:
1. Invest in Real-Time Pressure Monitoring
Implementing a real-time tyre pressure monitoring system can be a game-changer for fleets. These advanced systems provide instant feedback on tyre pressure, allowing for proactive management through the detection and addressing of any deviations from the optimal levels before they cause damage or inefficiencies.
2. Regularly Inspect Tyres
Make it a habit to inspect tyres frequently. Look for signs of wear and tear, any punctures, or irregularities in the tread pattern. Identifying and resolving these issues early on can prevent more significant problems down the road.
3. Maintain Correct Tyre Pressure
As mentioned earlier, maintaining the right tyre pressure is crucial for trucks’ performance and safety. Refer to load charts and recommended pressure levels from the tyre manufacturer, and ensure tyres are always properly inflated.
4. Rotate Tyres Regularly
Uneven tyre wear can significantly impact tyre lifespan. To even out wear and ensure consistent performance, rotate tyres regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
5. Perform Wheel Alignment
Misaligned wheels can cause tyres to wear out prematurely. Regularly check and align trucks’ wheels to prevent unnecessary strain on tyres and ensure even wear.
By following these five tips and incorporating regular tyre maintenance into fleet management routines, you’ll not only extend the life of your commercial truck tyres but also improve overall safety, performance, and efficiency. Remember, a little proactive care today can lead to substantial savings and increased profitability in the long run.
Interested to find out more about Real-Time Pressure Monitoring?
As your trusted logistics optimization software partner, we understand that your truck tyres represent a significant capital investment. We want to help you maximize your return on this investment, which is why we recommend adopting a proactive approach to tyre maintenance.
ConnecTyre, SA’s first on the rim TPMS that is connected to the cloud and connects to your back-office, enables you to track and manage tyre inflation levels effectively. We have also developed a model to calculate total breakdown savings, providing you with an accurate Return-on-Investment figure for your future TPMS investment. Book a demo now!
