TPMS and TPRS systems: how to keep your trailer tyres in top condition

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TPMS and TPRS systems: how to keep your trailer tyres in top condition

We have a lot of specialised features that make transporting your bulk goods easier. This includes many options that make the driving experience not only pleasant but also safe, for you as a STAS driver and for other road users. One of the most important things to consider for safety is the tyres. The STAS Trailers would not be able to drive around without reliable tyres. And at STAS we have some clever tricks up our sleeves to keep the tyre pressure as high as possible, because from July 2024 some kind of tyre pressure check will be mandatory on all new trailers that are registered for the first time.

Every driver will agree tyre pressure is extremely important. Tyre pressure affects various matters: rolling resistance, fuel consumption and the associated emissions, braking distance and the general stability of the vehicle. Tyre damage is one of the most common reasons for downtime for truckers. These are all very important factors for safe and smooth transport. In addition, tyres with insufficient air pressure will wear out more quickly, or they may even escalate into a blowout, which can lead to life-threatening situations. The tyres can wear out unevenly if the pressure changes unevenly.

By monitoring the tyre pressure, you can literally save money by reacting faster to damage before it becomes irreparable. Thanks to the correct tyre pressure, you can save 500 to 800 euros per vehicle per year on tyre maintenance and you have 10 to 20% less tyre wear thanks to an ideal contact surface between the tyre and the road. You also save up to 3 to 5% on fuel and, consequently, less CO² emissions and lower variable costs.

We’ve established there’s a need for a system that constantly monitors tyre pressure, because forewarned is forearmed. Fortunately for our customers, at STAS we have two different options: the TPMS system or the TPRS system. Both systems monitor the trailer's tyre pressure. The TPMS, short for Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, limits itself to monitoring the tyre pressure, while the TPRS, short for Tyre Pressure Refill System, goes a step further and automatically inflates air when the tyre pressure drops below a certain level.

Tyre pressure monitoring

Tyre pressure is monitored by a sensor that is mounted in each tyre separately. Any spare tyres can also be fitted with a sensor. These sensors are connected wirelessly to the ECU, which relays the data to the modulator. The sensors measure the pressure and temperature in the tyres in real time and send the data to the modulator. There the data is compared with the set desired values. If the values differ, the driver receives a warning signal.

Tyre pressure monitoring

Tyre pressure is monitored by a sensor that is mounted in each tyre separately. Any spare tyres can also be fitted with a sensor. These sensors are connected wirelessly to the ECU, which relays the data to the modulator. The sensors measure the pressure and temperature in the tyres in real time and send the data to the modulator. There the data is compared with the set desired values. If the values differ, the driver receives a warning signal.

A few useful functions of the TPMS - Tyre Pressure Monitoring System:

  • The system is compatible with the current dashboard of your truck! The tyre pressure message appears on the dashboard in the form of a warning light. Normally nothing extra needs to be installed in the cabin. On the smart board you can see the status, the desired tyre pressure and the current pressure.
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  • In addition to the tyre pressure, the temperature is also measured. If there are differences, there may be something wrong with the brake, the bearing or the tyre itself. In that case, you will also see a warning.
  • The system can also be easily installed on the spare tyre(s).
  • The sensor battery lasts up to 9 years! 6 months before the battery runs out, it gives a signal that the battery needs replacing. This gives you ample time to replace it.
  • The pressure range (2-14 bar) is much wider than normal tyre pressure.

TPRS: Monitor tyre pressure and inflate automatically

When you want to go one step further, you can opt for a system that measures the pressure and inflates when needed: the TPRS system or the automatic tyre air pump system.

How does the TPRS system work?

The system constantly monitors the pressure in all tyres, and when the pressure drops, the system adds air. The air to inflate comes from the air tank for the air suspension and the air pressure from the tank is increased by a maximum factor of 1.7 to re-inflate the tyres.

In addition to the above functions, the TPRS system is also equipped with the following:

  • Tyres are inflated while driving ánd when stationary.
  • The purple indicator light installed on the side guards can be seen from your mirrors. This way you can quickly see when the system is inflating. The faster the frequency of the flashing light, the more air the system is pumping. If the light stays on continuously, you have a major leak. It is best to pull over to the side of the road to visually inspect the leak and to estimate whether you can drive on to a service point.
  • Available on all STAS axles, except rims with a convexity of ET0

Why should you choose TPRS or TPMS?

TPMS TPRS
Measures pressure and temperature in the tyre Measures pressure in the tyre
Immediate notification when pressure drops Pumps in air when pressure drops
  Safer for you and others on the road
Compatible with your current dashboard Reduces the risk of blowouts
  Stay on the road longer as the system inflates until you reach the final location
  No uneven tyre wear

 

NEWS UPDATE

All new passenger cars have already been required to be fitted with some form of TPMS since 2014. This obligation will also go into effect for trailers, trucks and buses from 6 July 2024. All trailers registered for the first time from then on must have a TPMS system.

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