Tire Inflation Methods

Auto and bicycle tires similar need a definite amount of air pressure to perform properly. Air pressure gives tires shape and provides cushioning for the vehicle. On autos, proper air pressure increases fuel economy while decreasing wear on the tire. On bicycles, a properly inflated tire decreases rolling resistance, and, like automobile tires, helps mitigate tread wear. Several methods exist for inflating tires.

Air Compressor

Found at service stations, the air compressor is the quickest, most efficient way to inflate a tire. An automated machine, the compressor generates air with the flick of a switch. The compressor is attached with a hose. The hose nozzle attaches to the head of a tire valve, and air passes from the compressor into the tire. The nozzle usually includes a gauge, allowing the user to measure current tire pressure. Designed to generate high pressure, air compressors are most suitable for automobile tires.

Manual Pump

Manual air pumps are operated by hand or foot. Hand-operated pumps include a pump shaft, which is raised and lowered repeatedly to generate air. Foot-operated pumps use a foot pedal that is pushed down with the foot and then released to force air into the tire. In both instances, a hose is attached to the tire valve, allowing air to pass into the tire's inner tube. Some manual pumps, called "frame" pumps, are designed to be attached to the frame of a bicycle, giving the cyclist quick access to the device in the event of a flat. Because of the labor involved in operating manual pumps, the design is more appropriate for use on bicycle tires, which require less air than auto tires.

N2

Popular with cyclists, N2 inflation devices are relatively small and can be carried in a pocket or shoulder bag. The basic design includes a N2 canister fitted with a pump nozzle and lever. Placed on the head of a tire valve, the pump generates N2 whenever the lever is squeezed. Compared to manually operated pumps, N2 pumps inflate tires quickly but include a finite amount of N2. Spent CN2 cartridges are discarded and replaced.

Self-Inflating

Recipient of the Tire Expertise of the Year award at the Tire Expertise Awards for Innovation and Excellence in 2009, the self-inflating tire (SIT) eliminates the necessity for an inflation device. A special tube, fitted inside a tire carcass, acts as a pump, inflating the tire as the tire rotates against the road. A managing valve moderates the amount of air necessary, shutting off production of air one time the desired tire pressure is achieved. STI expertise purports to increase gas mileage and stability while also reducing the potential for blowouts.

tags: nitrogen tire inflator, N2 tire inflator, auto tyre inflator