Kenworth Truck Co. has announced availability of aluminum hubs as a front- and rear-axle option on Kenworth Class 8 trucks and tractors equipped with Bendix ADB22X air disc brakes.
The Kirkland, Wash.-based truck maker says the new option will benefit on-highway and vocational customers that demand weight-saving components and are interested in an efficient braking package that offers lower operating costs. The aluminum hubs are much lighter, with almost 80 pounds of weight reduction per axle than traditional iron hubs, the companies say; enhanced heat rejection dissipation and increased brake pad life are added benefits of splined rotors paired with aluminum hubs.
The aluminum hubs are available with front Bendix ADB22X air disc brakes equipped with Dana Spicer steer axles up to 14,600 pounds. For rear applications, the aluminum hubs are available with Bendix ADB22X air disc brakes equipped with Dana Spicer rear axles up to 23,000 pounds (single), 46,000 pounds (dual) and 69,000 pounds (tridem).
Bendix says the ADB22X air disc brake model features a mono-block caliper design that provides a compact brake compared to two-piece caliper models. This design offers sealing that provides optimal protection from environmental elements, and a larger rotor that absorbs more energy, according to the company.
Extensive product testing conducted by Bendix Spicer Foundation Brakes has proven that Bendix brand air disc brakes virtually eliminate brake fade with no degradation of stopping power, enable a passenger car-like feel and, in controlled tests, permit straight, stable stops due to high brake efficiency and low hysteresis, the company says. Bendix brand air disc brakes are compatible in a variety of combinations with North American tractor and trailer air drum foundation brakes.
