Does incorrect tire pressure accelerate wear?
The correct tire pressure for tractor tires has a decisive influence on tire wear, traction, fuel consumption, and soil protection. Too high or too low air pressure can lead to agricultural tires wearing out faster and not being able to utilize their performance optimally.
Since new tractor tires represent a significant investment for every agricultural business, it is worthwhile to regularly pay attention to tire pressure. With the correct setting, the lifespan of the tires can be extended and, at the same time, the performance of the tractor can be improved.
Driving tractor tires with an average air pressure
Many farmers regularly switch between field, farm, and road. Due to time constraints, the temptation to choose a compromise in tire pressure and continuously drive with an average air pressure can be great.
However, this compromise is usually not optimal for the tires. On the road, too low air pressure can increase rolling resistance. In the field, on the other hand, too high air pressure can reduce the contact patch, increase slip, and worsen traction.
Why tire pressure should be adapted to the application
Different requirements apply to tractor tires on the road and in the field. Therefore, the tire pressure should be adjusted according to the actual load, speed, and type of application.
Those who frequently switch between road and field can also consider a tire pressure control system. This allows the air pressure to be adapted more quickly to the respective conditions during operation.
Tractor tires with too high air pressure
Too high tire pressure in tractors can cause disadvantages, especially during field work. The higher internal pressure reduces the contact patch. This can cause the tire to penetrate deeper into the ground and work less optimally with the surface.
More slip and poorer traction
A smaller contact patch can lead to more slip. The tractor tires spin more, which causes unnecessary tire abrasion. At the same time, more engine power is required, which can negatively affect fuel consumption.
Soil load also plays an important role. An unfavorable combination of tires, air pressure, and axle load can increase soil compaction and thus worsen the conditions for plant growth.
Higher air pressure on the road
On paved roads, a higher tire pressure, suitable for the respective tire load and speed, can offer advantages. Rolling resistance can be reduced, and the tires can work more evenly.
Observe manufacturer's specifications
It is important, however, that the tire pressure is always chosen according to the tire manufacturer's specifications and depending on axle load and speed. A generally high air pressure is not automatically the best solution.
Tractor tires with too low air pressure
Lower tire pressure can offer advantages in field work. The lower internal pressure increases the tire's contact patch. This allows the tractor's power to be transmitted better to the ground.
Larger contact patch in the field
A larger contact patch can improve traction and reduce ground pressure. This can reduce the risk of excessive soil compaction.
Especially with heavy tractors and agricultural equipment, the correct combination of tire size, axle load, and tire pressure is therefore particularly important.
Too low air pressure on the road
What can offer advantages in the field is not necessarily optimal on the road. Too low tire pressure can increase rolling resistance and cause the tires to heat up more.
The consequences can be higher fuel consumption and accelerated tire wear. Therefore, the air pressure should not generally be chosen as low as possible.
Is there a perfect tire pressure?
There is no universal perfect tire pressure for tractor tires. The optimal value depends, among other things, on tire size, tire construction, axle load, speed, and operating conditions.
IF and VF tractor tires
Modern IF and VF tractor tires offer additional possibilities for adjusting the air pressure. VF stands for "Very High Flexion" and refers to tires with particularly flexible sidewalls.
VF tires can carry higher loads at comparable air pressure or handle the same load with lower air pressure than conventional tires under suitable operating conditions. This can offer advantages, especially for heavy agricultural machinery.
VF tires for soil-friendly field work
Operating with lower air pressure can increase the contact patch. This can contribute to better power transmission and a reduction in ground pressure.
Observe permissible air pressure
However, the actual permissible air pressures always depend on the respective VF tractor tire, the load, and the speed. The tire manufacturer's specifications must therefore be strictly observed.
How to extend the life of your tractor tires
If you want to reduce the wear of tractor tires, you should regularly check the air pressure and adjust it to the respective application.
The most important points at a glance
- Check tire pressure regularly
- Adjust air pressure to axle load and speed
- Consider field and road use
- Do not continuously drive tires with an unsuitable compromise pressure
- Observe the load capacity of the respective tire
- Check tires for uneven wear and damage
- Observe the tire manufacturer's specifications
Buy tractor tires at Interpneu AG
Those who want to buy tractor tires will find a large selection of agricultural tires from various manufacturers, sizes, and designs at Interpneu AG. As a Swiss online provider, Interpneu AG supports in selecting the appropriate tires for different tractors and application areas.
Large selection of agricultural tires
Whether radial tires, IF tires, or VF tractor tires – the right combination of tire size, load capacity, and air pressure is crucial to optimally combine traction, soil protection, and tire life.
Buy suitable tractor tires online
With the right tractor tire and the correct tire pressure, not only can wear be reduced. The efficiency of the tractor and its performance in field and road work can also be improved.