Welcome to the Air Brake Book, 8th Edition. Since Commercial Carrier Journal published the last edition of the Air Brake Book about six years ago much has changed regarding heavy-duty vehicles – perhaps most notably the various changes in engine technology to achieve federal emissions standards. While the industry hasn’t seen much change in the fundamentals of air brakes, there have been several key developments worth noting.
First and foremost, perhaps, is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s adoption in July 2009 of a new stopping distance standard that could change significantly how fleet owners spec braking systems in the future. In essence, the mandate for a 30-percent reduction in stopping distance likely will mean bigger drum brakes and higher maintenance costs, potentially making air disc brakes more attractive than in the past. A number of fleets have already begun evaluating air disc brakes, which not that long ago seemed like an uneconomical solution to many fleet operations.
Another major trend has been the rise of advanced stopping systems built on the foundation of antilock braking systems. Roll stability control, full electronic stability control and adaptive cruise control with braking are among the major safety-enhancing functionalities that have gained acceptance or come to market since the last edition. Braking is no longer just a way to stop the vehicle but is rather an integral element in vehicle control systems that help avoid accidents or mitigate the damage.
Since 1911, CCJ’s mission has been to help our readers be productive and successful. And our goal for the Air Brake Book is to help keep you up to speed on air brake systems – today, and for as long as big wheels are rolling. Let us know how we’re doing.
— CCJ editorial staff
