Nitrogen Tire Fill: Education Balances Claims With Reality
Since 1967, the question of filling tires with nitrogen has captured the imagination of tire scientists and tire dealers alike. Here’s what we know: Nitrogen exceeds oxygen in better air retention because nitrogen diffusion through the sidewall is 30% to 40% slower than oxygen. Result: nitrogen maintains tire pressure longer than ambient air.
We also know that maintaining proper tire pressure boosts fuel economy. By how much is anyone’s guess. Some say as high as 6%; others say a bit less. No matter. By restraining the heat in the tire and reducing rolling resistance, the customer gets better fuel economy, even if that number isn’t as high as 6%.
Nitrogen inflation means a cooler-running tire; just ask NASCAR. With quicker heat dispersion, a cooler-running tire extends tire life and reduces tire failure. Nitrogen also prevents oxidation, which can lead to belt failure. And, when combined with moisture, oxygen can corrode wheels. In fact, moisture can result in rust flakes that can fall into the valve stem, block the valve and cause low inflation. It can even cause the valve stem itself to rust.
For at least 40 years, we have known that a tire filled with nitrogen significantly slows the chemical aging process of the tire’s rubber components. We know that nitrogen-inflated tires result in fewer catastrophic failures, and adds to the tire’s core life. When it comes to big fleets, nitrogen inflation yields extra retreads and lower fleet costs.
We know, also, that nitrogen is not dangerous. It is an inert gas, which means it will not burn.
What maintenance is involved in nitrogen inflation generators? Simply calibrate the nitrogen generator monthly, and change the filter elements every six to 18 months. Replace the carbon element and oxygen analyzer every 18 to 24 months.
How long will a nitrogen tire inflation system last? If well maintained, a nitrogen inflation system will last well beyond 20 years.
Can a tire be refilled with air if nitrogen is not available? Yes, filling a tire with air after it has been inflated with nitrogen won’t cause any problems. The immediate effects of nitrogen will be lost, but the tire will be fine for driving until it can be purged and refilled with nitrogen.
So, what’s the problem? What’s the holdup? Why aren’t more dealers and consumers jumping on the proverbial bandwagon?
Maybe it’s all just a question of getting better acquainted with the technology.
Good Reasons to Think About Balancing Compounds
For many of your tire/wheel combinations, balancing compounds are an interesting alternative to wheel weights. According to one company that produces balancing compounds, tractor-trailers and large RVs need a high-density ceramic bead that continuously balances tires as the vehicle is driven.
Easily installed, according to the makers, the result is a smooth, vibration-free ride. That’s because the balancing media is always repositioning itself as the tire wears. For pickup truck owners, commercial truck, motorhome, RV, tractor-trailer, motorcycle or similar vehicles in which you want to get rid of wheel vibrations and cupping problems, you need to think about balancing compounds.
Another manufacturer of balancing compounds says properly balanced tires can reduce wear and tear on tires, vehicle, budget and the driver.
Using balancing media makes balancing more affordable, so it can be used in trailer tires, also. The driver will enjoy increased fuel mileage and a lifetime balance for the tires. The firm offering this advice also says the balancing compound it sells will not break down and can be reused a second, or even third, time.
Forget about “clumping,” says one maker of balancing compounds. The balancing beads this company sells are said to be almost 60% heavier than glass beads and more than 150% heavier than balancing powder. This translates, says the company, into a highly efficient tire-balancing media, one that works even in freezing temperatures.
Another key reason to use balancing beads, says the company, is to avoid abrading the innerliner and eliminate cupping.
Think about using alternative balancing solutions for your off-road mudders and rock crawlers, as well, says the company. No need to waste time with balance patches or wheel weights due to the distance from the outside of the tire to the rim. Who wants to hang three pounds of wheel weights on a rock crawler?
These aggressive, oversize tires change their balance requirements quickly throughout their life, making static balancing solutions like wheel weights and balance patches ineffective, says the balancing compound maker.
