Why Wheel-End Heat Detection Matters

Photo credit: OPP

Wheel separations are almost always preceded by a thermal event, typically caused by:

• Dragging brakes

• Failing bearings

• Improper maintenance or adjustment

P.S.I's ThermALERT® and Digital ThermALERT® directly target these early warning signs by monitoring wheel-end temperature and alerting drivers or fleet managers before a dangerous condition develops. 

Why This Matters for Fleets in Canada (and Everywhere)

Recent wheel separation incidents highlight the need for:

• Better early-warning systems

• Consistent driver training

• Proactive maintenance

ThermALERT directly addresses all three by:

• Giving drivers actionable alerts

• Providing fleets with temperature history and analytics

• Reducing reliance on manual inspections

• Preventing costly and dangerous wheel-off events

How P.S.I.’s ThermALERT System Prevents Issues

Standard ThermALERT (included with P.S.I. ATIS since 2017)

• Alerts drivers when wheel-end temperature rises 100°F above normal.

• Helps prevent wheel loss, fire, and roadside breakdowns.

• Installed inside the spindle end to minimize external temperature influence. 

Digital ThermALERT (Next-Generation Upgrade)

• Provides real-time temperature visibility via telematics (such as TireView® LIVE™).

• Allows fleets to customize alert thresholds based on duty cycle and terrain.

• Enables root-cause analysis (fleets have already used it to identify misadjusted brakes and other maintenance issues). 

• Features a replaceable battery and sensor positioned at the critical heat zone for accuracy. 

Driver Training: P.S.I. ATIS / MTIS Video

P.S.I.'s dedicated Driver Video explains:

• How the ATIS/ThermALERT system works

• What to do when the indicator light activates

• How to respond to thermal alerts safely

The video is accessible via QR code decals included on new systems or available for retrofit.