Tire pressure control for tractors

Steyr deploys the Isobus-based Terra Care central tire inflation system (CTIS) in its tractors. The system developed by CNH Industrial Austria enables soil protection and fuel consumption savings through variable tire pressures.

The tire pressure control system is available for Steyr tractors from the range Profi to the Terrus CVT providing 115 hp (horse power) to 300 hp. Technical components of the system were optimized to fit the respective model. Additionally, the new intuitive operator interface based on Isobus was developed and customized together with CNH Industrial Austria. Isobus is a J1939-based higher-layer protocol used in agriculture vehicles. On request, CNH supports the customers regarding installation, assembly, and handling of the system.

In the system, a single Isobus-connected control unit regulates the tire pressures on the tractor’s front and rear axles as well as all tires on an attached implement. This means the reduced soil impact from the tractor's regulated tire pressures is not then spoiled by damage from the tires of the trailed machine. The system can also be retrofitted to any number of trailers and trailed machines. Studies at the South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences have shown that with an annual diesel consumption of 20000 Euro, a tire pressure control system can result in savings of up to 2000 Euro. At the same time, the soil is protected from compaction.

Tire inflation and deflation is possible at all speeds, and the system can be manually deactivated. An optional high-capacity air compressor with storage can be specified for customers asking for a minimal inflation time. The steel used in the system’s construction is stainless, while a single air hose means there is no risk of condensation or frost damage. The stainless-steel lines on the axles are sealed with silicon carbide washers, ensuring maximum service life from the wear-free and maintenance-free pivot bearings. Mechanical slope compensation is standard with trailer control, but an automatic system is available on request.

“In conjunction with our specialist partners, we are proud to be able to offer our customers an efficient post-manufacturing solution for all high-horse-power tractors before delivery to the dealer,” says Christian Huber, Vice President Global Product Management for Steyr Traktoren and Managing Director CNH Industrial Austria. “It is an example of our approach to create “win-win situations” – and this is achieved perfectly here through greater soil protection while at the same time saving fuel.”

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