In co-operation with Haldex the brake manufacturer, SAF-HOLLAND, supplier of parts for commercial vehicles, has developed a disc brake which is extraordinarily light in weight. The weight reduction per axle is 12 kg or 36 kg for a trailer with a triaxle suspension. The new SAF SBS 2220 has been designed for brake torques of up to 20 kNm and disc brake rotors with a diameter of 430 mm. That makes it suitable for both semitrailers and trailers with axle loads up to 9 metric tonnes combined with 22.5“ tyres.

„A significant reduction in weight without any compromise in terms of performance and stability” is what Olaf Drewes, Director Research and Development Axles and Brakes at SAF-HOLLAND, cites as the key benefit compared to conventional disc brakes. Essentially, there are two measures which have made this possible:

All brake components were submitted to an intensive finite element analysis and were specifically optimized with regard to weight and strength. On the other hand, a new light-weight single-tappet mechanism with integrated T-shaped wide thrust plate has been developed for the application of the brake.

„As a result,“ Olaf Drewes confirms, „the brake pads are extensively supported and pressed evenly against the brake disc, leading to homogeneous pressure distribution“. He is convinced that this ensures a good performance in terms of brake retardation under any operating conditions. „In addition, it considerably reduces the risks of heat cracks and uneven wear“.

For a quick and easy disc change, SAF-HOLLAND has retained the proven and patented SAF 4-hole-interface with positive alignment for the new SBS 2220. That way, the brake with its four fixing bolts can be dismantled easily and safely at any time. Transport companies up time is further ensured by completely encapsulating the stainless steel calliper guide pins, which are matched to specially coated composite bearings and non-wear and non-lubricated plain bearings along with rugged inverted mechanism bellows: Allowing greater protection from external dirt and debris , for example. If necessary, the brake pads can be exchanged quickly and simply. The entire calliper housing has special protection against corrosion with cathodic dip coating.

The SAF disc brake SBS 2220 can be combined with any SAF 9 tonne axle units and can be used with conventional or INTEGRAL discs. This applies to wheel offsets 0 and 120 as well as single and twin tyres.

Combining the new low-weight brake with the SAF INTEGRAL brake disc can be particularly economical. Its patented composite cast design has proved to be both very powerful and durable over the years. In addition, it is the only brake disc within the industry so far which offers a special guarantee against continuous heat cracks.

Olaf Drewes is certain of one thing: „Lower weight is a factor that carries a lot of weight in terms of more efficiency in the transport business". With only 31 kg including brake pads, the SAF disc brake SBS 2220 is sure to create a lot of interest with vehicle manufacturers and freight forwarders. The new brake has gone through a comprehensive test bench and field trial. Production start has been scheduled for the second quarter of 2011. Until the end of 2011, it will be exclusively marketed throughout Europe by SAF-HOLLAND.