Ready-mix trucks are essential for delivering concrete to construction sites, but they also face some unique challenges on the road. Unlike other heavy trucks, ready-mix trucks have to deal with changing weights when dumping concrete, harsh terrain, and weather conditions. Ready-mix concrete should be discharged from the mixer within 2 hours, making tire-related equipment downtime a big concern for ready-mix fleets. That’s why maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for keeping your ready-mix trucks running smoothly and safely this construction season.
Tire pressure affects many aspects of your ready-mix truck’s performance, such as:
Proper tire pressure can eliminate tire-related equipment downtime.
Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, tread wear, and heat buildup. Overinflated tires reduce traction, handling, and durability. Both conditions can lead to tire blowouts or punctures that result in costly equipment downtime.
Underinflated tires cause excessive heat buildup, which can damage the tire’s structure and lead to premature wear and blowouts. Overinflated tires cause uneven wear on the center of the tread, which can reduce the tire’s lifespan and grip.
Underinflated tires can compromise your truck’s handling, braking, and cornering abilities, which can increase the risk of accidents and rollovers. Overinflated tires can make your truck more susceptible to road hazards, such as potholes and debris, which can cause punctures and flats.
Ready-mix trucks have a unique configuration that sets them apart from other heavy trucks. As they load and unload concrete, their weight distribution shifts from the front axle to the rear axles. This means their tire pressure needs to be adjusted accordingly to match the load size and avoid overloading or underloading the tires.
To keep your ready-mix trucks running safely and efficiently this construction season, here are some tips on how to maintain optimal tire pressure:
You should adjust your tire pressure according to the amount of concrete you are carrying and the weight distribution on your axles. Use the load/inflation tables provided by your tire manufacturer to find the right pressure for your load size.
Checking your tire pressure and tire temperature regularly and in real-time is easy with Doran 360HD(™) TPMS. The system has a wireless display that shows the current pressure and temperature of each tire, as well as audible and visual alarms for low pressure, high temperature, and fast leaks.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific tire model and load size, and be sure to check the pressure before loading when the tires are cold, after loading, and after dumping concrete.
Set yourself up for success with real-time notifications by installing the Doran 360HD(™) TPMS. Real-time notifications will alert you of a rapid deflation event. Whether the rapid deflation is caused by a puncture, blowout, or valve stem failure, you’ll know right away to stop your vehicle – and save it from a run-flat. The event may still require tire repair or replacement, but avoiding a run-flat and further damage to your equipment and hazardous conditions for the driver means increased safety, lower costs, and reduced downtime.
Rotate your tires every 6,000-8,000 miles to ensure balanced pressure and driving. And replace worn or damaged tires promptly. Regular tire maintenance will not only help balance the tire pressure on your ready-mix truck but minimizes the risk of blow-outs, accidents, and other hazards on the job site.
A TPMS can help you monitor your tire pressure and temperature in real-time, alerting you of any changes or issues that may require your attention. A TPMS can also help you save fuel, extend tire life and prevent breakdowns. Keep your ready-mix trucks running this construction season with Doran 360HD(™) TPMS. To learn more about how our systems can help your fleet, call or send us a message today.
