The US military has one of the largest and most varied vehicle fleets in the world, with a broad range of vehicle weights and types. These vehicle brake systems include disc, drum, wet plate, and wet band using mechanical, hydraulic, and air actuation systems. Military and commercial fleets share many challenges, most of which are driven by Federal laws, regulations, and policies.
The objective of the project presented by this paper is to provide a decision-making tool so that the responsible engineering authority can make a reasoned decision on the acceptability of alternative products and sources through a formal standardized process. The paper presents the background, different test plans, test procedures, and the main workflow for 1) potential offerors interested in pursuing a brake component (secondary item) supply contract with the US Military, and 2) research/development of alternative systems.
The product of the effort is the development of the “ATPD 2354” spec and its pre-planned replacement, a DODISS-approved Federal Test Standard (FTS) in MIL-STD-962 format.