TPMS. What’s this all about?

‘Tyre pressure monitoring’ is coming to trailers.  Having been made mandatory in Europe on the 6th July 2024, the UK is expected to play catch-up with the UN ECE R-141 legislation in July 2025.  From then, all newly registered trailers will require a type approved TPMS system.

Weightlifter Bodies are ready now for this change but what will it mean to operators?

How the system works

The Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) on your truck works by continuously monitoring the air pressure in your tyres and providing real-time feedback to help you maintain optimal tyre conditions. Here's how TPMS will work on your trailer:

  1. Direct TPMS Sensors
    The TPMS operates through direct sensors installed inside each of the trailer’s tyre. These sensors measure the actual air pressure within the tyre and sometimes the temperature. The sensors are mounted either on the valve stem or within the tyre cavity and are powered by small batteries.
  2. Data Transmission
    The sensors wirelessly transmit tyre pressure data to a central chassis mounted receiver, which is connected to your trailer’s braking system and therefore your truck’s onboard computer. The information is then processed, and if any tyre falls below or exceeds the recommended pressure, the system alerts you.
  3. Dashboard Alerts
    When a tyre's pressure deviates from the set 20% threshold (for a 385/65R22.5 tyre. 1.8bar or 26psi), the TPMS triggers a warning on your truck's dashboard. This can appear as a simple indicator light or as a detailed message displaying the exact tyre and its current pressure. Some systems might also show temperature readings if the sensors and the truck support this feature. Older trucks might not show any warning if they don’t support TPMS communication over the CAN bus.
  4. Trailer Integration
    The trailer's TPMS communicates with the truck's onboard system, integrating the data to provide a comprehensive view of all tyre conditions, both on the truck and the trailer.
  5. Preventive Maintenance
    By providing continuous monitoring, TPMS allows you to address underinflation, overinflation, or slow leaks before they become significant problems. This proactive approach helps prevent tyre blowouts, improves fuel efficiency, and extends tyre life, leading to safer and more cost-effective operations.
  6. Battery Life and Maintenance
    The sensors used in TPMS have batteries with a typical lifespan of 5 to 10 years. When the battery runs out, the sensor needs to be replaced. Regular maintenance checks should include ensuring the TPMS sensors are functioning correctly and replacing any that are not.

Are there benefits of TPMS for operators

TPMS offers several advantages beyond individual vehicle safety and efficiency.

      1. Fuel Economy
        It has long been recognised that under inflated tyres increase fuel consumption.  Tests show that air pressure as little as one bar too low will increase fuel consumption by approximately 2% (Ref: Guide Tyres and how they impact fuel consumption.pdf (volvotrucks.com)). With fuel remaining the single largest cost of operation after driver costs, TPMS has the potential to add significantly to the operators bottom line.
      2. Optimal Tyre Wear
        The same Volvo study reports that as little as one bar too low pressure, can increase tyre wear by up to 20%.
      3. Reduced Downtime
        By catching tyre issues early, TPMS helps prevent breakdowns that can lead to costly downtime. For fleets, where time is money, reducing unscheduled stops can significantly improve operational efficiency.
      4. Fleet-wide Monitoring
        Modern TPMS can integrate with telematics systems, allowing fleet managers to monitor tyre pressure across all vehicles in real-time. This centralized monitoring makes it easier to identify trends, schedule maintenance, and address issues proactively.
      5. Enhanced Predictive Maintenance
        TPMS data can be used as part of a predictive maintenance strategy. By analysing pressure and temperature trends, fleet managers can predict when tyres are likely to need service or replacement, allowing for more strategic planning and reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures.

Over time, the cost of implementing and maintaining TPMS can be offset by savings in fuel, tyres, and reduced downtime. Moreover, the potential to avoid accidents and the associated costs further justifies the additional cost in TPMS.

What should the driver do when alerted by the TPMS?

The warning could mean a pressure loss or that the wheel is overheating. The driver should check the tyres, brakes, and rims. If there's visible damage or uncertainty, they should replace the tyre or call for help.

  1. What if the warning light stays on after changing or refilling a tyre?
    Turn off the ignition for five seconds and try again to reset the system. It might take a few minutes for the sensors to update their status. If the warning persists, check the tyres, brakes and rims. If there's visible damage or uncertainty, they should replace the tire or call for help.
  2. Does the system need to be reprogramed every time you change the wheel positions?
    Not necessarily.  The Weightlifter Bodies system will self-learn any position changes.  However, note, not every manufacturers system works this way.  Some may need reprogramming.

The future of TPMS in trailers

As regulatory bodies continue to prioritize vehicle safety and efficiency and technology advances, the role of TPMS is expected to grow. Future systems may offer even more precise monitoring, including real-time analytics and integration with autonomous driving systems. Advances in sensor technology may also lead to more durable and reliable TPMS solutions, reducing the cost and effort of maintenance.

Conclusion

TPMS is a crucial technology for enhancing the safety, efficiency, and longevity of truck tyres. For truck owners and fleet managers, understanding the benefits and challenges of TPMS can lead to more informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and operation. As the industry continues to evolve, TPMS will likely play an increasingly important role in ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of goods across the country and beyond.

Weightlifter Bodies have this technology available for you now.  If your truck has the capability (your truck dealer will be able to advise you here), then Weightlifter can retrofit a suitable TPMS system.  Please call for more details.