Braking improvements
Page 20
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by Colin Sowman • Lucas has developed a full hydraulic braking system for trucks in the six to 12-tonne range. It will be lighter and cheaper than the air/hydraulic brakes it replaces; response times are said to be reduced by 20%. The system uses sliding caliper discs all round with a spring chamber to operated the park brake (hydraulic pressure is used to hold it in the off position).
By using hydraulic power from the steering pump, and removing the need for an air compressor, Lucas reckons to save 15% on the price of an air/hydraulic system. Doing away with the air compressor and tanks is also said to make it 25kg lighter and less complicated than existing systems.
Lucas cites easy incorporation of ABS as another benefit, especially as mandatory fitment comes down the weight rangeABS on air/hydraulic systems often demands an extra pump.
To date no truck manufacturers have specified the system.
1.5liding calliper hydraulic disc brake. 2. Hydraulic disc with spring park brake. 3. Pedal. 4. Park brake valve. 5.Hydraulic spring chambers.