Performance-based brake test system

Diesel Progress North American Edition, August, 2005

SuperFlow Technologies Group, Des Moines, Iowa, has introduced a new performance-based brake test system (PBBT). The system, said SuperFlow, is designed to reduce brake wear, maintenance costs, road accidents and improve road safety for heavy-duty trucks.

SuperFlow said the PBBT dynamically tests brake or hydraulic pressure capacity--under fully applied pressure--by driving the truck's tires with a set of rollers. As air pressure is applied to the brake system, force produced by the brakes is measured, recorded and displayed on the computer, which instantly compares recorded brake force capability to known industry standards for brake function. With one technician, using a hand-held remote control, an operator can monitor and record information from the front tires on the cab to the rear tires of the trailer vehicle, SuperFlow said.

The self-powered PBBT units are portable and can be deployed at job sites, terminals, inspection centers or in the service lanes and bays of truck maintenance operations, Superflow said. A built-in, self-contained shuttle system enables the unit to elevate 1.5 in. off the ground to re-position itself via its own power source. Undercarriage lighting increases visibility. Solid-state electronics are also designed into the system for increased reliability.

A computer-monitored data acquisition system graphs out reports, including pass/fail summaries. The system features heat exchangers to cool the PC's enclosure and hydraulic system in hot climates. A cold weather package featuring a heated oil reservoir with extreme temperature oil for the hydraulic system, thermal battery wrap and heated PC enclosure is also available.

Functions measured include brake force (with wet rites), rolling resistance, threshold apply pressure and weight of axle. SuperFlow said in a matter of 10 to 12 minutes an operator can test a five-axle tractor trailer for imbalance, oil-soaked linings, drag, improper stroke, cracked drums, worn or tight-end bearings, air system problems, insufficient parking brake force and tractor/trailer incompatibility. A hydraulic shaker plate/lift system allows inspection for excessive play in kingpins and tie rods.

Additional features include in audible engine alarm system with indicator lights, an audible lift warning system when using shaker plates, E-stops on both ends of the tester, and a fuel-injected engine to power the rollers.