Swedish truck manufacturer, Scania, has further developed its hydraulic retarder technology. The latest version automatically disengages and freewheels when not in use to save on fuel.
According to Scania, the new R4100D retarder reduces drag losses as both vaned wheels that provide braking power when rotating in oil are disengaged.
Actual fuel savings will vary depending on road conditions, said Scania, but an average of a half percent reduction is taken as the rule of thumb.
“The driver doesn’t have to do anything,” Scania said. “When braking power is needed, the free-wheeling stops and the engagement takes place smoothly and immediately using a type of synchronisation that is similar to that in Scania gearboxes.
“Besides not requiring any energy, the freewheeling retarder also provides higher braking power; 4,100Nm instead of 3,500Nm, as well as an increased braking effect at lower engine rpm with the help of higher gear ratios.”
“Reducing fuel consumption is Scania’s main priority,” said Örjan Åslund, responsible for Product Affairs at Scania Trucks. “The freewheeling retarder produces further savings that also contributes to an elevated driving experience.”
Deliveries of the new retarder to Australian customers are expected around the middle of 2015.