The Benefits of Commercial Wheel Polishing for Fleets
While clean, shiny wheels are aesthetically pleasing, they’re also essential for effective vehicle operation. Commercial wheels take a beating because they’re responsible for bearing loads and sealing your tires. Investing in polishing services helps protect your fleet from unnecessary wear and tear and keeps it on the road.
How Wheel Maintenance Affects Fleet Performance
Your commercial wheels aren’t just cosmetic accessories. They play an essential role in managing your fleet’s operational efficiency. That affects your safety as the operator and that of other drivers on the road. Tires flex as they come into contact with the road, so commercial wheels provide the support they need and dissipate heat to keep your tires rotating properly.
Aluminum and steel wheels can develop oxidation and corrosion that compromise structural integrity, increasing the risk of failure on the road. Regular wheel polishing restores the surface to support better sealing and maintain proper lug nut torque, which helps extend the life of your tires.
Advantages of Commercial Wheel Polishing
Improved Fleet Performance
Visual Inspection Systems (VIS) polishing removes oxidation and surface contamination caused by road debris, grime and brake dust. The process creates a smooth surface that helps tire beads seat properly. That reduces the risk of air leaks and pressure loss, which can cause uneven tread wear, fuel inefficiency and heat buildup. A clean wheel also allows for better mounting and clamping force to prevent loose wheels, which presents a safety issue.
Extended Service Life
VIS polishing is a form of preventative maintenance you can use to extend the service life of your commercial wheels. If left unchecked, corrosion can eat away at steel and aluminum, creating pits that trap moisture and debris. That could result in increased repairs and, potentially, more frequent replacements. Those costs will add up quickly if you operate a multi-vehicle fleet. Managing the risk of damage allows you to keep your wheels in service longer so you can get the maximum value from your investment.
Enhanced Fuel Efficiency
Fleet fuel efficiency is influenced by a variety of factors, especially the state of your wheels. When well-maintained, commercial wheels help tires seal properly and support consistent air pressure. That can prevent deformation, so your engine doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your tires rolling. Lower rolling resistance reduces heat buildup and contributes to better fuel efficiency. The shape of your wheels also affects aerodynamic drag, so creating a smooth, clean surface allows air to flow evenly around the assembly.
Increased Operational Safety
You’ll have an easier time spotting pits, cracks and other imperfections on polished wheels. It can be difficult to see those structural issues if they’re covered in dirt and dust. Even a minor hairline fissure can become an operational hazard if left unchecked. VIS polishing covers bead seats, bolt holes and valve stems where cracks can go unnoticed. Keeping your commercial wheels polished also expedites the pre- and post-trip inspection process since you don’t have to contend with layers of grime when checking for issues.
VIS Wheel Polishing at Bauer Built
Bauer Built’s automated VIS polishing system provides a uniform shine and that reduces the potential for inconsistencies and human error. Despite that thoroughness, our application is gentle on wheels and can have them looking like new. Learn more about our process and contact your nearest location to schedule service.
Categories: Bauer Built Blog, Commercial Services, Commercial Tire Tips, Tire Care Tips
