Smartbrake
Rochester Hills, Mich.-based Smartbrake has introduced a new endurance brake, called the Air-Set Smartbrake, at this year’s Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ken.

The company says the Smartbrake performs operations far outside the scope of retarding devices, providing maximum braking horsepower throughout the entire rev range; infinite levels of retardation between the maximum and minimum settings for varying drivetrain, weather, and local conditions; rapid engine warm-up; assists in the maintenance of cabin temperature; and emergency engine shut down.

It can be installed on small, medium or heavy-duty vehicles.

The company says Smartbrake carries several advantages over an engine pressure release brake. The cost is said to be 50 – 80% less; at 18.5 lbs., it can be as little as 20% of its engine brake counterpart; it emits a ‘low growl’ instead of a high-pitch; Smartbrake installation varies from 2-4 hours dependant upon control system; and it does not require to have the engine at working temperature to operate effectively.

The company also says Smartbrake is more powerful than a “butterfly” exhaust brake, allowing maximum retardation available from the engine no matter what the engine speed is operating at.