AIR BRAKES ABS SYSTEMS - Thursday, November 8, 2012

This class (Anti-Lock Brake Systems) offers diagnostics and proper maintenance procedures on the Rockwell Wabco/Bendix systems.
Discussion topics for the ABS System seminar to include:

Q: How do antilock brakes work?

A: The main advantage of antilock brakes is that they can reduce braking problems on wet and slippery roads. Antilocks work with a vehicle's normal service brakes to decrease stopping distance and increase the control and stability of the vehicle during hard braking. The principle behind antilocks is that a skidding wheel provides less stopping force and control than a wheel that is rotating. Antilocks prevent wheels from skidding by monitoring the speed of each wheel and automatically pulsing the brake pressure on any wheels where skidding is detected.

Q: Where are antilock brakes required?

A: The standard for tractors requires antilock control on the front axle and at least one rear axle.  Each wheel must be independently controlled by an antilock modulator on at least one of the tractor axles.  This ensures that a wheel provides shorter stopping distances and optimal braking force on all surfaces, especially on roads where one side is slipperier than the other. For semi-trailers, at least one axle must have antilocks. Full trailers must have antilocks for at least one front and one rear axle.