Weinheim, March 7, 2025. Freudenberg Sealing Technologies (FST) has significantly improved its seals for Central Tire Inflation Systems (CTIS) for construction and agricultural machinery. These seals automatically adjust the tire pressure of off-highway vehicles to changing ground conditions and vehicle loads. With just one push of a button, drivers can save time, reduce CO2 emissions, and extend the lifespan of their tires. Jens Wolfram, Global Segment Director Mobile Machinery – Agriculture, explains what makes CTIS sealing technology so special.
How exactly does Freudenberg Sealing Technologies’ CTIS sealing technology differ from conventional systems, and what role does the integration into the wheel hub play?
Systems that use external cables are more prone to malfunctions or failures. For example, if a tractor drives along trees or walls, there is a risk of damaging the components and cables. Our Central-Tire-Inflation sealing solutions are positioned directly in the wheel hub, protecting them from hazards or contamination from external influences during agricultural work processes. This gives us a significant advantage and a unique selling point compared to the external systems available on the market. Additionally, for those who value aesthetics, agricultural equipment looks tidier without visible cables.
What challenges did you face in developing the double-lip sealing component, and how were these technically solved?
One of the main requirements was the precise adjustment of tire pressure to road and ground conditions as well as the vehicle’s load. Therefore, we designed the sealing component to enable significant fuel savings while reducing excessive wear on mechanical vehicle components. Driving comfort was also to be optimized: With our seal as part of a CTIS system and the resulting optimal tire pressure, vibrations caused by uneven surfaces are significantly reduced, leading to a more pleasant driving experience.
Jens Wolfram,
Global Segment Director Mobile Machinery – Agriculture
Another challenge was the efficient separation of lubricating oil and compressed air: The sealing component must efficiently separate the lubricating oil in the wheel hub from the compressed air flowing into the tires. For this reason, the seal is installed within the wheel hub, making an external hose unnecessary.
How do markets outside North America benefit from CTIS seals, and what specific adjustments are necessary for different regions?
The products can be used independently of the region and regardless of applications, so no adjustments are necessary for different markets. Whether the agricultural equipment is used at the North Pole or the equator, it doesn’t matter. However, it is generally true that if our CTI system is to be installed in a tractor, it must be equipped with a compressor. Unlike trucks, tractors do not generally have compressors on board.
