A series of tests were conducted with the aim of: 1) determining the relationship between the brake forces measured by the VIT and actual braking performance of a heavy vehicle; 2) determining the relationship between brake force balance as measured by the VIT and actual truck behaviour during braking; and 3) establishing a relationship between roller brake testing and standards compliance testing. A strong relationship has been found to exist between the weight on a wheel and the brake force that wheel is capable of generating. On the basis of this relationship it is proposed to adopt a new minimum braking requirement expressed in kN/tonne. A relationship between brake imbalance and vehicle performance was also established. (A)
Abstract