Hendrickson Trailer Suspension Systems announced Tiremaxx Pro a while back, an automatic inflation system that will allow precise maintenance of trailer tires. It continuously monitors and adjusts tire pressure by inflating or deflating tires based on changing environmental conditions, as well as balancing tire pressures at every wheel position. It’s the first automatic tire inflation system capable of active tire deflation and balancing, the company says. It’s not out yet but will launch in the first quarter of 2011.

The patented system features a "straightforward" mechanical design — no electronics, transducers or pressure switches — that continuously monitors tire pressure to respond to changes in outside temperature. It draws from the trailer air supply to keep trailer tires properly inflated and if the ambient temperature increases, the system will relieve air when necessary to prevent overinflation. This helps achieve maximum tread life with all tire configurations, Hendrickson says, but especially with wide-base single tires that are sensitive to pressure.

The system balances the pressure at every tire, which is especially useful with dual tires since it reduces scrubbing between dual tires and this lengthens tire life.

Tiremaxx Pro uses a rotary air connection that’s integrated into the hubcap, the connection built with high-precision bearings and an engineered polymer seal. It continuously checks tire pressure without pressurizing the axle or wheel ends and employs a pneumatic controller to direct air to tires that fall below a preset pressure level. A signal light illuminates only when attention is required to alert the operator of tire or system leaks.

The system requires no special tools to adjust tire-pressure settings and operates on either 12- or 24-volt electrical systems.