OUR PARTNER IN TIRE, WHEEL & FUEL PRESERVING SOLUTIONS
IMI EQUAL FLEXX
is an adaptive, internal wheel-end balancing solution that reduces fuel and tire costs by reducing vibration from the wheel end. Developed in partnership with the foremost experts in vibration analysis and testing, its soft, dry particles are engineered to continuously balance tires, creating a smoother ride and more even tire wear.
HOW IT WORKS
As a tire vibrates, energy is created. FLEXX absorbs this energy and the accompanying vibrations within the tire. Less vibration means less wear and tear on the truck, longer tire life, better fuel economy, and a smoother ride for your driver.
CALCULATE YOUR SAVINGS
$1000
STEERS
18% IN SAVINGS
$2200
DRIVES
39% IN SAVINGS
$2300
TRAILER
43% IN SAVINGS
$5500
IN TOTAL ANNUAL TIRE & FUEL SAVINGS WITH IMI FLEXX
IMI MILCURE WHEEL REFINISHING
IMI MILCURE is a combination of equipment, consumables, and process produce a wheel with an even 3.5 mil thickness as recommended by the TMC. When combined with specially-formulated IMI shot blast media and powder coatings, this system delivers the most efficient and highest quality wheel refinishing technology on the market today.
In 1984, OSHA issued mandatory regulations requiring removal of rust, dirt and debris from wheels. The trucking industry was suddenly faced with the need for an end-to-end wheel refinishing solution. IMI immediately stepped up and filled that need with the industry’s first complete wheel refinishing system. And guess what? We have one of these top of the line machines at our Warehouse in Frederick, MD that is up and running and always ready to assist with your Fleet’s needs.
THE IMI MILCURETM PROCESS
INSPECTION
First, we facilitate the discovery of problem wheels before they impact your fleet. Prior to blasting, wheels are thoroughly inspected for any damage or out-of-service conditions. Prompt removal of out of service or ‘RAR’ wheels from the refinishing process increases safety, as well as time and production costs.
Wheels that have serious structural damage need to be retired to protect your fleet. TIP: you can inspect wheels before sending them to your service provider and catch some common wheel damage that makes them too dangerous to use. Look for indications such as: missing or illegible DOT stamps, cracks, or worn and distorted bolt holes. By discarding these damaged wheels, you protect the safety of your fleet before you even begin the refinishing process.
BLASTING
One of the biggest concerns we hear from fleets is wheels that rust shortly after they’ve been refinished. This can be the result of using large, aggressive wheel shot (S330 or larger), which creates peaks and valleys on the wheel surface during blasting.
We have the industry’s premier centrifugal force blaster. High-blast shot modules harness advanced technology to prepare wheels for an optimal finish in under 3 minutes. In addition, the blend of steel grit and shot removes coatings without damaging the wheel or causing corrosion in the next life cycle.
After a wheel has been blasted, we will check for any serious damages that were hidden under paint and debris. Some common damages to look for after blasting include: cracks, distorted bolt holes, worn mounting faces, and damaged wheel flanges.
REFINISHING
Powder coating doesn’t just add color and gloss to a wheel – it also acts as a shield against corrosion. Unlike paint, powder coat doesn’t require repeat applications, keeping your fleet on the road, and reducing downtime.
Our powder coatings are engineered for refinished steel truck wheels. Our patented powder coating technology maximizes the efficient transfer of powder to the wheel: specific particle sizes charge better to effectively cover the entire wheel surface, including deep crevices. Our powder coating is formulated for anti-outgassing to provide a more corrosion-resistant finish.
At Rice Tire, our techs are trained on the proper application of powder coating, ensuring the finished surface is even and has a thickness that does not exceed 3.5 mils, particularly on the bolt faces. By diligently adhering to these standards, you can rest assured that your fleet will be supported by safe, professional-looking wheels.