TRT is releasing a new upgrade of its Traction Air EM Series central tyre inflation system (CTI) which includes improved design and simplified installation.
The latest system will be accessible to customers in Australia and New Zealand. The product has also been distributed in Sweden and across Asia, making it available worldwide.
Traction Air was introduced over 20 years ago to address the unique challenges posed by the rugged Australian Outback. Today, it remains an integral part of more than 4000 vehicles primarily across New Zealand and Australia.
The concept of fitting central tyre Inflation systems on logging trucks in New Zealand was introduced through a well-established Canadian product called Redline, which had a strong presence in the Canadian logging industry.
New Zealand’s forestry owners recognised the advantages of adjusting tyre pressures to reduce expenses on their forestry routes, all while improving the accessibility and safety of both their logging truck fleet and operators.
The development of Traction Air first began in 1997 when TRT’s Bruce Carden, now managing director, saw an opportunity in the market to manufacture a more affordable and improved alternative to Redline.
“What followed was a journey marked by innovative brainstorming, significant investments in research and development, and product testing in New Zealand and Australia and ultimately the creation of the TRT-manufactured central tyre inflation system, Traction Air,” the company says.
TRT’s first New Zealand Traction Air system was fitted to a Trevor Masters Kenworth logging truck in March 1997. In 1999, TRT fitted its first Traction Air system in Australia.
Bruce Carden and one of TRT’s most experienced fitters, Robert Flood, journeyed to Australia to introduce the product. “These were exceptionally exciting times for TRT,” the company says
In Australia, the first installation took place in Tasmania for Ken Padgent, who operated out of Scottsdale. At the start, Padgent, much like the majority of Tasmanian loggers, had his doubts. However, once his first Kenworth was fitted with the system and a demonstration of a fully loaded B-double was given, he experienced the benefits and began to endorse the product.
The fully loaded B-double weighed over 60 tonnes and had to start on a gravel haul road with roughly a 15% gradient. The drive tyres, set at 32 psi, provided such excellent traction that the front axle lifted off the road.
Following that, the Traction Air was also installed on the world’s first triple road train, which was operating out of Alice Springs. The rig had Traction Air systems on all 96 tyres.
“The Tanami Desert Road is harsh, and the ability to reduce tyre pressure resulted in substantial maintenance savings for Australian Fuel Distributors on those seemingly endless dirt roads,” TRT says.
In February 2010, G Series Traction Air was launched, featuring GPS Speed Up Control and dual transducer sensing. Later In September 2019, TRT introduced the Traction Air E-Series in Australia and New Zealand.
Transforming fleet management
The Traction Air CTI-EM Series is designed to accommodate a variety of diverse conditions.
The new system integrates CAN-BUS protocols that are interface capable with telematics.
TRT general manager of sales, Gavin Halley, explains: “The new upgrades deliver a better all-round experience in transforming fleet management, with three key areas of improvement.”
Improved design
The new EM Series features a simplified and improved manifold design that optimises airflow and improves pressure distribution. This enables the system to perform more efficiently, delivering improved responsiveness for traction.
The design enhances the efficiency of the system, resulting in improved tyre performance.
The new EM Series consists of the new versatile, high flow compact valves enabling increased air flow. The new series also comes with a user-friendly plug connection for convenience.
Simplified Installation
The pressure cell’s design is 50% more compact than the existing model, allowing for enhanced installation flexibility in tight spaces.
This simplicity ensures the system can be integrated into a vehicle, regardless of its size or configuration.
Robust and lightweight
The new pressure cell is housed in a robust yet lightweight composite cover, providing the necessary protection against environmental elements without adding unnecessary weight. It is self-purging to eliminate moisture and dust contaminants.
End-to-end product support
TRT says it remains committed to providing comprehensive support to customers throughout the lifespan of the Traction Air System, including parts and service support throughout Australia and New Zealand.
Each EM Series pressure cell undergoes complete assembly and testing at TRT’s head office and manufacturing facility, ensuring excellence and product quality.
The option of installation and training is provided on-site by service technicians. This is tailored to the unique needs and specifications of technicians, drivers, and operators.
“Our 24/7 parts on-call service ensures rapid component exchange, guaranteeing uninterrupted operations and significant cost savings,” Halley says.
“This product represents our commitment to delivering the most advanced and user-friendly fleet management solutions.
“We are excited to offer a product that not only meets but surpasses the expectations of fleet owners, ensuring their operations run smoothly and efficiently,” he says.
*Go to trtaustralia.com.au/traction-air-cti-system for more information.
