WHY USE NITROGEN

Nitrogen is a dry, inert gas used to inflate airplane tires, off-road truck tires, military vehicle tires, and race car

tires for improved performance. Oxygen in compressed air permeates through the wall of the tire,

thus reducing the tire's inflation pressure. During its journey through the tire wall, oxygen oxidizes

the rubber compounds in the tire, causing under-inflation and deterioration of the rubber. Dry nitrogen

will maintain proper inflation pressure and will prevent auto-ignition, will not corrode rims, and will help

the tire to run cooler. The result is increased safety and reduced operating cost.

Situation
1. Canada's Drexan Corp runs 70 tractors and 117 trailers in longhaul operations
2. Conducted 9-month double-blind study testing effectiveness of nitrogen tire inflation program
3. Results published in paper prepared for annual Clemson University Tire Industry Conference

Significant Points
1. Nitrogen system improved fuel efficiency by 3.1% compared to tire pressure maintenance program using air
2. Improved 6.1% compared to no tire pressure maintenance program
3. Study also uncovered 86% gains in tire tread life
4. Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions could be exchanged for revenue on carbon trading markets

Background
1. Nitrogen permeates through tire casings more slowly than ambient air
2. Nitrogen-filled tires maintain optimum pressure longer
3. Dryer nitrogen helps preserve tire rubber and protect casings from corrosion damage