Semi trucks are large, heavy vehicles that can easily become difficult to control due to the additional weight and size. To help manage speed when going downhill or to slow down quickly, semi trucks use a device known as a retarder. A retarder is an auxiliary braking system that helps reduce wear and tear on the truck’s regular brakes and increases safety for the driver and others on the road.
There are several types of retarders available for semi trucks. The most common type is an engine retarder, which uses engine power to slow the truck down.
This type of retarder works by increasing the amount of fuel being injected into the cylinders, which in turn generates more torque than normal. This extra torque puts a drag on the engine and slows it down, thus slowing the truck as well.
Another common type of retarder is an exhaust brake. This type works by using backpressure from exhaust gases in order to slow down the vehicle. Exhaust brakes are commonly used in combination with engine brakes in order to further reduce speed.
A third type of retarder is called a hydraulic retarder. This type uses hydraulic pressure to slow down a truck’s wheels by creating friction between them and the road surface.
Hydraulic retarders are often used on heavier vehicles such as buses or larger freight-hauling trucks.
How Does a Semi Truck Retarder Work?
A semi truck uses one or more types of retarders in order to reduce speed quickly and safely. Engine brakes work by increasing fuel injection into cylinders, creating extra torque that acts like a drag on the engine; exhaust brakes use backpressure from exhaust gases; and hydraulic retarders create friction between wheels and road surface. By slowing down quickly, semi truck drivers can reduce wear and tear on their regular brakes while also increasing safety for everyone on the road.
Conclusion
Semi truck drivers rely on different types of retarders to help them manage speed when going downhill or coming to sudden stops. By using these auxiliary braking systems, they can maintain control over their vehicle while also reducing wear on their regular brakes and increasing safety for other drivers as well.
