A braking system for a commercial vehicle is a complex arrangement of many components, drawn from a number of sources and assembled to a chassis. Fully satisfactory braking therefore depends not only on the correct functioning of the individual components, but also on the relationships between many of them and with the vehicle as a whole.
A well designed and properly maintained braking system should develop a braking force at each axle; this should be in proportion to the load on it, and this force should be generated equally by the two brakes on the axle, i.e. the braking performance should be both predictable and controllable. The working temperature of all brakes will then be approximately the same and the vehicle should stop in an acceptable distance, without pulling to the right or left.
Most components of a trailer are ready for any duty as soon as it comes of the assembly line. Brake linings, however, need a little initial care on a new vehicle and when replacements are fitted. Once bedded–in, brake linings then only need routine inspection to determine when eventual renewal is required.
Brake linings are manufactured from a relatively soft but tough and heat-resistant material with a high coefficient of dynamic friction. The choice of material depends on the brake application and it needs to be able to absorb and disperse large amounts of heat without adversely affecting the braking performance.
To ensure your brakes are relined and skimmed right the first time, contact JMR’s brake division where high quality, reliable machines, parts and workmanship comes standard.
Continued on next article: "Brake Linings on Trailers - Maintenance"