Layout of Braking System and Influence on Handling under Consideration of European Braking Standards

The different applications of trucks (short-, medium-, long distance haulage, construction site) lead to very different requirements to be met by the brake systems. Concerning transmission the air braking system has great advantages for trucks and has therefore prevailed. On the other hand the design of the brake system must consider the regulations. In Europe common regulations concerning braking systems have been brought out since 1972 and have superseded formerly national standards. So the set up of the braking system mainly with regard to the brake balance is dealt with under consideration of the european braking standards. The influence of braking on handling is very important. Therefore the behaviour of a truck and a tractor/semitrailer is discussed for braking in a straight line and in a turn.