Truck Brakes - European Style

This paper describes the Lucas Girling approach to the design of a range of foundation brakes which represents the state of the art in Europe. Disc and Drum brakes are presented showing their particular technical features. In order to meet the braking needs of trucks in excess of 6 tonnes gross, it is necessary to have both hydraulically and air mechanically actuated brakes. The detailed design requirements of adjusters and the need to achieve good mechanical definition in the constructional features of drum and disc brakes are also discussed. The influence of tyre and rim developments on brake design are also outlined.