The Synact air disc brake has a two-piston design and braking torque of more than 30kNm – and, says the manufacturer, delivers benefits for truck makers, operators and engineers alike.
“For vehicle manufacturers, Synact provides firm foundations for the next steps toward automation; for vehicle operators, it brings a new dimension of efficiency and flexibility; and for workshops, it offers a means of further improving their service levels,” says Bernd Spies, chairman of the management board of Knorr-Bremse Commercial Vehicle Systems.
Featuring a stronger but lighter caliper and smooth-running internal mechanics, the full braking torque of 30kNm is possible even during prolonged braking manoeuvres, says the company. The two-piston principle ensures even pad wear without additional mechanisms, and Synact is 4kg lighter than its predecessor, improving payload and fuel consumption.
Synact will be available with optional Active Caliper Release (ACR), a patented system, which separates the pads from the brake disc and centres the calliper when braking is complete, minimising brake drake and power losses.
ACR has been tested by TUV Sud, which says it can deliver fuel savings of up to 1% on a two-axle tractor.
Knorr-Bremse also says an electronic brake condition monitoring system is in development, which will enable flexible maintenance intervals and predictive maintenance planning.