SwRI: Vehicle Research and Development, Brake Systems

  Image of braking system. Using innovative rotor material with improved insulating properties, SwRI engineers dramatically increase the kinetic energy loading of the braking system, which permits the vehicle to transport heavier loads.
 

Using innovative rotor material with improved insulating properties, SwRI engineers dramatically increase the kinetic energy loading of the braking system, which permits the vehicle to transport heavier loads.

Brake system performance for vehicles ranging from motorcycles to heavy-duty, multi-unit trucks is tested at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI). Design and development programs help correct braking problems and can also develop new systems.


During the design life of a commercial or off-highway vehicle, the vehicle size and power output are routinely increased. To accommodate these additional requirements, engineers must also increase braking capacity. Using an SwRI-developed software program, engineers determine appropriate braking system modifications, including:

  • Brake material type

  • Brake size

  • Actuation chamber dimensions

  • Cylinder dimensions

  • Line dimensions

  • Supplemental braking system requirements

  • Hybrid vehicle regenerative braking capabilities

image of vehicle on which SwRI engineers eliminated unacceptable brake fade by modifying friction material type and size, brake chamber size, and fluid valving

SwRI engineers eliminated unacceptable brake fade associated with this vehicle by modifying friction material type and size, brake chamber size, and fluid valving.


For more information about brake systems capabilities at SwRI or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Alan Montemayor at amontemayor@swri.org or (210) 522-6940.

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Southwest Research Institute® (SwRI®) is an independent, nonprofit, applied engineering and physical sciences research and development organization with 12 technical divisions using multidisciplinary approaches to problem solving. The Institute occupies more than 1,200 acres and provides nearly two million square feet of laboratories, test facilities, workshops, and offices for more than 3,300 employees who perform contract work for industry and government clients.