Proper tyre inflation improves safety and decreases costs

In April 2025, Product Profile4 MinutesBy NZ Trucking magazineMay 30, 2025

Tyre maintenance is a critical aspect of fleet management, with tyre costs ranking as the second-highest expense for transport operators – only behind fuel.

Proper tyre inflation is essential to extending tyre life, improving fuel efficiency and preventing costly roadside failures.

The PSI Automatic Tyre Inflation System is designed to address these challenges, providing a constant and regulated air supply to maintain optimal tyre pressure.

More than 70% of the largest trucking fleets in the US are running Pressure Systems International’s PSI system because of its proven reliability and return on investment. In more than 20 years of production, it is also exported to more than 20 countries.

T.A.T.E.S NZ is an authorised New Zealand distributor of Pressure Systems International’s PSI tyre inflation system for any ROR trailer axle.

Designed for efficiency and safety

Self-contained on the trailer, PSI can easily adapt to any trailer on Meritor/ROR axles. The system can be installed on any type of trailer, from refrigerated, tankers, tippers, flatbeds and container chassis.

PSI kits are also available for retrofitting onto ROR axles from T.A.T.E.S NZ.

The PSI system is available for ROR 17.5in, 19.5in and 22.5in super single fixed and steer axles, ensuring all trailer tyres remain at a consistent pressure. This prevents failures due to slow leaks or punctures, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

“Correct tyre pressure equals increased tyre life, saving money. This means there will also be fewer roadside callouts, further reducing operational costs. Plus, PSI is the only system that alerts the driver of a potential hub failure,” says Aaron Burson, sales engineer, T.A.T.E.S NZ.

Even when the vehicle is stationary or in transit, the PSI system continuously monitors and maintains optimal tyre pressure, enhancing both safety and performance.

Enhanced safety with ThermALERT

Not only can the PSI tyre inflation system save tyre tread/life, increase fuel economy, and reduce maintenance and tyre blowouts, it can also avoid severe damage and/ or replacement of axles and trailers by detecting overheating bearings thanks to its ThermALERT system.

ThermALERT is a non-electronic system that uses an Eutectic metal plug that melts at a designated temperature. When this happens, a light illuminates on the trailer and a loud noise signals the driver to pull over immediately to avoid overheating and a potential trailer fire.

This proactive feature prevents severe damage to the axle, suspension and trailer, ultimately saving fleets from expensive repairs and extended downtime.

Under-inflation is the leading cause of tyre failure; even a small drop in pressure can significantly shorten tyre life. With PSI, fleets can expect:

  • increased tyre lifespan
  • improved fuel efficiency
  • reduced roadside breakdowns
  • minimised maintenance costs
  • greater overall safety.

“By ensuring that tyres are always at their optimal pressure, the PSI system offers fleet operators a smart investment that enhances both safety and cost-effectiveness,” Aaron says.

“With its innovative design and built-in ThermALERT warning system, it is a must-have for modern transport fleets looking to improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary expenses.

“Safety is also improved by vehicles performing and handling better when tyres are at the correct specified pressure, and there is a dramatic reduction in the amount of damaged truck tyre casings littering the roads and highways, thus becoming a hazard for other motor vehicles.”