FlowBelow Aero Inc., a Tier 1 supplier of tractor-mounted aerodynamic products, made two announcements during the 2018 Technology and Maintenance Council Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibit taking place this week in Atlanta. First, FlowBelow stated that its Quick-Release wheel covers and tractor AeroKit system will be offered as optional equipment on all International LT and RH Series trucks effective immediately. The products can be ordered for any new LT and RH Series trucks through the International dealer network with installation completed at the International Truck Plant and Truck Specialty Center.
The tractor AeroKit reduces aerodynamic turbulence and drag on the truck by streamlining airflow past the drive wheels, the company explained. When optioned, each 6×2 or 6×4 truck is outfitted with wheel covers, center fairings located between the wheels, and rear fairings behind the wheels. Wheel covers can also be outfitted on 4×2 trucks. The fairing system works like fuel tank fairings by helping to control the air flow along the side of the truck. The Quick-Release wheel covers also provide tool-free access to the wheel end via FlowBelow’s patented push-and-turn quick-release latching system.
As part of the agreements signed, FlowBelow products will be warranted by International Truck as well as made available for aftermarket purchase through all International Truck dealers in the US and Canada. The system is made in the USA using durable materials.
In the second announcement, FlowBelow said that the Quick-Release wheel covers and trailer AeroSlider system will be offered as factory-installed options on Strick Trailers. The products can be ordered for any new van trailer through the Strick dealer network with installation completed at Strick’s manufacturing facility in Monroe, Ind.
The Trailer AeroSlider is mounted directly to the sliding trailer suspension and that travels with the suspension. The AeroSlider utilizes FlowBelow’s patented Quick-release wheel covers in combination with a fairing between the trailer wheels and aerodynamic mud flaps behind them. Each of the components work together as a system to address the complex airflow around the trailer wheels and the wake behind the trailer, the company stated. The system is designed to complement other trailer mounted aerodynamic devices such as trailer skirts and tails and offers additive fuel savings depending on the combination of devices implemented.
The Trailer AeroSlider system was recently validated to provide fuel savings in excess of 1%, which is the minimum requirement for EPA SmartWay certification, FlowBelow reported.
