Document Z8NNqkMpXYyp0wpGekn3YKR7Z

AMERICAN BRAKEBLOK DIVISION BULLETIN NO. I WEDGE BRAKES While the "S" type cam brake is still popular in the heavy duty field, there is increasing interest in the newer wedge type brake. It may follow that the wedge type will eventually replace the "S" cam type. The advantages of the wedge type are many, but most important is its increased effectiveness because both shoes are of the leading type. In the "S" cam type, only one of the shoes is leading while the other is trailing. Even though the drum diameters are smaller with the wedge brake effectiveness and lining life are increased due to the fact that the work is evenly distributed between the two leading shoes. The actua tion can be either hydraulic or air. A point of interest is that the hydraulic wheel cylinders are externally mounted which removes them from the area of the brake heat. The brake adjustment with the wedge type can be either manual or automatic. The lining co-efficient for the wedge type is higher than that used for cam brakes. The same lining is used for either hydraulic or air actuation. The claims of the wedge brake encompass total economy, that is: less weight, less air, less heat, more effective ness and extended life of lining, drum and air components. Patrick J,-Meade Technical Service Engineer SPNY 005965 SCF-ABEX-0046