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Compaction Prevention: Tire Pressure Adjustments

alternative practice names:

Automated Weight Transfer (AWT); Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS); Automatic Tire Inflation System (ATIS)

Adjusting tire pressure can prevent compaction. A proper pressure level influences contact pressure between the tire and the soil. Lowering tire pressure increases the tire's contact area with the ground, distributing the weight more evenly and reducing the intensity of compaction. Conversely, overinflated tires have a smaller contact area, which can concentrate the load and increase compaction. 


While farmers can manually adjust tire pressure between trips on roads and fields, it is time-consuming and not very practical. Central Tire Inflation Systems (CTIS) make adjusting tire pressure quick and convenient. CTIS integrates an onboard control panel, air compressor, and pressure sensors to allow operators to monitor and adjust tire pressure from the cab, ensuring optimal pressure for varying conditions. The system can automatically inflate or deflate tires based on operator input or pre-set parameters, enhancing efficiency and reducing soil compaction. The technology can be installed on most equipment, including trucks and some new tractors. 

When used, in what regions in the U.S. is the practice found: 

Northwest, West, Upper Midwest, Southwest, Northeast, Southeast

FARM SIZE 

When used, typically found on farms of the following sizes:

Over 500 cows

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Practice Benefits 

Increased yields: Reducing compaction should lead to increased yields, as plants will be better able to access moisture, air, and nutrients in the soil profile.


Improved infiltration and drought resistance: Reducing soil compaction increases pore space, promoting better water infiltration and enhancing the soil's water-holding capacity. This not only improves drought resistance but also aids in drainage during wet conditions, helping to prevent soil saturation and ponding.


Reduced tire wear: If equipment is being run at the optimum field and there is road tire inflation, the life of expensive agricultural tires will be maximized.


Reduced fuel cost: Pressurizing tires to optimal conditions for roads and fields reduces fuel costs. 

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Implementation Insights

Site-specific or Farm-specific requirements 

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  • Soils prone to compaction: CTIS provides the greatest benefits on fine-textured soils prone to compaction. 

Required Capital Expenditures (CapEx)

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  • CTIS systems: The cost of CTIS can vary widely based on factors like equipment type, farm size, and specific technology used. These types of tire inflation systems have been used in the trucking industry for decades and are now making their way into the agriculture industry.

Required Operational Expenditures (OpEx)

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There are no ongoing operational expenditures associated with this practice.

Implementation Considerations

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  • Installation: There may be some help needed for installation; once that is completed, this system is straightforward.

Financial Considerations and Revenue Streams

There are no federal cost-share programs or conservation funding for this practice.

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Alignment with FARM Program

FARM Environmental Stewardship (ES) V2-V3 Alignment

The optional FARM ES Conservation Practice Questionnaire (CPQ) also asks about compaction prevention.

Contents

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We're always eager to update the website with the latest research, implementation insights, financial case studies, and emerging practices. Use the link above to share your insights. 

We're always eager to update the website with the latest research, implementation insights, financial case studies, and emerging practices. Use the link above to share your insights. 

Contents

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Practice Overview

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Practical Insights.png
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Research Results.png
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Adjusting tire pressure can prevent compaction. A proper pressure level influences contact pressure between the tire and the soil. Lowering tire pressure increases the tire's contact area with the ground, distributing the weight more evenly and reducing the intensity of compaction. Conversely, overinflated tires have a smaller contact area, which can concentrate the load and increase compaction. 


While farmers can manually adjust tire pressure between trips on roads and fields, it is time-consuming and not very practical. Central Tire Inflation Systems (CTIS) make adjusting tire pressure quick and convenient. CTIS integrates an onboard control panel, air compressor, and pressure sensors to allow operators to monitor and adjust tire pressure from the cab, ensuring optimal pressure for varying conditions. The system can automatically inflate or deflate tires based on operator input or pre-set parameters, enhancing efficiency and reducing soil compaction. The technology can be installed on most equipment, including trucks and some new tractors. 

Practices and technologies

Compaction Prevention: Tire Pressure Adjustments

alternative practice name:

Automated Weight Transfer (AWT); Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS); Automatic Tire Inflation System (ATIS)