Connection Winter 2015 | Page 7

PRESSURE EVENTS Improper tire inflation could be costing you fuel S omthing as simple as air pressure could be costing producers money and causing a host of problems, including irregular tire wear and compaction issues. During a tire demonstration and event hosted by United Ag’s Danevang location, Firestone Ag representative Dusty Hininger stressed the importance of proper air pressure and explained how incorrectly inflated tires cost producers money. He said the only way to ensure correct tire air pressure is to know what the tractor weighs. Getting to a scale is not always feasible for producers, but United Ag has simplified the process by investing in portable scales. These scales allow United Ag to go to producers’ locations and weigh tractors on the spot. Genaro received extensive training in Iowa to be able to provide this service to producers. “It doesn’t matter what tire brand you have, if you do it United Ag’s way — you’ll save fuel,” Hininger said. “This is yet another way United Ag is setting itself apart.” Hininger said it is important to remember to weight the tractor with a full fuel tank to ensure an accurate weight and avoid the risk of running while overloaded. With the use of tread displays, Hininger gave a visual demonstration of the effect air pressure has on efficiency. When weighing one tractor, it was discovered that the tires were inflated to 25 PSI when the recommendation for that weight was only 12 PSI. By correcting the air pressure, the tread went from a 17-inch footprint to a 21-inch footprint, resulting in 68 feet per mile in more tread and better traction. Hininger said it may seem like a small difference, but at 50 miles a day it can add up to saving 2 percent to 3 percent of fuel in the field. “Even if you were to save 1 percent of your fuel bill, it would be worth your time,” Hininger said. Hininger said there is technology available to assist with automatic pressure regulation He also recommended investing in increased flex, or IF, tires when possible. These tires are capable of carrying 20 percent more weight at the same air pressure level. “The tire doesn’t carry the load, the air pressure carries the load,” he said. United Ag has invested in portable scales and professional training to help producers ensure correct weights and tire pressure levels. These scales, seen in the picture to the right, can be transported to producers’ barns or fields. Please call our Danevang location for more information and to learn more about the technology available to help determine and regulate PSI levels. 7