Air Brake ABS Systems

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 include:

How do anti-lock brakes work?

The main advantage of anti-lock brakes is that they can reduce braking problems on wet and slippery roads. Anit-lock brakes 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 anti-locks is that a skidding wheel provides less stopping force and control than a rotating wheel. Anti-locks prevent wheels from skidding by monitoring the speed of each wheel and automatically pulsing the brake pressure on any wheels where skidding is detected.

Where are anti-lock brakes required?

The standard for tractors requires anti-lock control on the front axle and at least one rear axle. Each wheel must be independently controlled by an anti-lock 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. For semi-trailers, at least one axle must have anti-locks. Full trailers must have anti-locks for at least one front and one rear axle.