Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) is a system that allows to adjust the tire pressures of vehicles according to used in difficult weather and terrain conditions and military interventions. It provides information to the drivers about the tires, thanks to the continuous control of the pressure of the tires. The external air source, which is one of the most important parts of this system, allows the deflated tire to inflate again until it reaches the appropriate pressure.

This system, which is especially found in vehicles in the agriculture and military sectors, provides fuel savings between 10% and 40%, as well as providing advantages in terms of safe driving, prolonging tire life and saving time.

How is System Works?

Looking at the general operating principles of the system, first of all, there is a wheel valve at each wheel end. These valves isolate the tire when the tire is not in use to reduce the pressure of the gasket and extend its duration. It also allows the tire to be inflated or deflated at the request of the driver.

The electronic control unit is considered the brain of the system. Commands to be given to the system and all signals are managed from here. Tire pressure is checked every 10 minutes to ensure that the pressure selected in the system is applied smoothly. Commands are sent to the wheel valves and the pneumatic control unit. The pneumatic control unit contains a sensor that transmits the tire pressure values to the electronic control unit.

In case of a possible puncture or air leakage in the tires, the driver is informed about the situation due to the error screen on the control panel.

The operator control panel enable the driver to select the tire pressure according to the weather conditions. Mounted on the instrument cluster, this panel displays tire pressure, selected mode and system status. When a tire pressure is selected, data from the control panel is transmitted to the electronic control unit, the pneumatic control unit and the wheel valves.

When vehicles are moving fast, the tire pressure should be higher to prevent tire damage. The system includes a speed sensor that sends the vehicle's speed information to the electronic control unit. When you continue to move at high speed for a certain period of time, the system automatically adjusts the tires to that speed.

These types of systems use air from the same compressor that supplies the brakes with air. A pressure switch gives priority to the brake system. With that preventing air from filling the central tire inflation system's supply tank before the brake system is fully charged.