This paper describes the development of an epoch-making eddy-current retarder featuring light weight, compact and easy installation by using very powerful Nd-Fe-B base permanent magnet. The paper is about a new braking system concept of heavy duty vehicles. The safety improvement of brake application at high speed driving, and future requirements of the brake system of these vehicles are discussed. The discussion is based on test results obtained while driving on express way in mountainous districts in Japan. The new retarderd can be incorporated in the conventional brake system as an integral part. For the brake safety improvement, the retarder is to be used mainly at high speed. However, the conventional wheel brake system is to be used at low speed running or in an emergency.
Samenvatting