Meritor WABCO Introduces New Electronic Leveling Modules, Offering Optimum Ride Height (March 20, 2002)
Meritor WABCO Introduces New Electronic Leveling Modules, Offering Optimum Ride Height LOUISVILLE, Ky. (March 20, 2002)
Meritor WABCO Vehicle Control Systems has announced, in conjunction with the Mid-
America Truck Show, its new tractor and trailer electronic leveling modules (ELM). The modules are designed to electronically sense and accurately control the operation of the tractor and trailer air suspensions.
The primary function of the modules is to supply air to the respective suspension on an as-needed basis only. This results in optimum control of ride height with minimal parasitic compressor load on the engine. Minimal parasitic power loss translates into increased pulling power and reduced fuel
consumption.
Dennis Sandberg, president of Meritor WABCO Vehicle Control Systems said, “We’re pleased to add these new modules to our vehicle control system lineup. Fleets and owner-operators will benefit from a more efficient use of their vehicle’s air system, while at the same time realize less wear on their
drivetrain components and reduced operating costs.”
ELM for Tractors
The tractor ELM raises and lowers the rear air suspension by means of a dash-mounted switch or an optional remote control. After the trailer is uncoupled and the tractor begins to drive away, the module automatically returns the suspension to the optimum ride height. This provides correct
driveline operating angles and subsequent reduced vibration and wear on drivetrain components.
ELM for Trailers
With the trailer ELM, a control pad allows the vehicle operator to quickly raise
or lower the trailer at the loading dock. After loading/unloading is complete
and the tractor-trailer begins moving away from the dock, the ELM automatically returns the trailer to the optimum ride height. This helps reduce suspension bottoming and prevents damage to the trailer.
Tractor and Trailer Applications
An electronic inductive sensor, integral to both models, provides precise measurement of the vehicle ride height. To keep the tractor-trailer combination running level, an electronic control unit (ECU) analyzes rideheight changes every sixty seconds before supplying air to the suspension or
exhausting it. With less air being consumed by the air suspension, the compressor loads and unloads less frequently. This results in more engine horsepower going directly to the drive wheels.
“The ELM was specifically designed to lower wear cycles on air system components and extend compressor life. This innovative product is part of our continuing effort to help the end-user meet the evolving requirements of airoperated accessories,” commented Sandberg.
The Meritor WABCO tractor and trailer electronic leveling modules are designed for use with conventional Class 8 vehicles. A variety of air suspension trailers can be accommodated, including: steerables, semitrailers, dollies, doubles, tankers, flatbeds and car haulers.
The tractor and trailer electronic leveling modules are just one element offered
by Meritor WABCO and ArvinMeritor as part of their complete braking system. Other braking system components include: anti-lock braking system, electronic braking systems, air dryers, brake control valves, air compressors, foundation brakes, automatic slack adjusters, friction materials, and hubs and drums.
Meritor WABCO* is a joint venture of ArvinMeritor, (NYSE:ARM) and the WABCO Automotive Products Group of American Standard Companies Inc. (NYSE:ASD).
American Standard is a global manufacturer with market leading positions in three businesses: Trane®, the United States' leading supplier of central air conditioning systems and service for commercial and institutional buildings and a premier brand for residential buildings; American Standard® and Ideal Standard®, the world's largest manufacturer of plumbing products; and WABCO®, the leading supplier of electronic braking and control systems to
the world's manufacturers of heavy-duty trucks and buses. The company employs approximately 58,000 people in 36 countries. American Standard is included in the Standard & Poor's MidCap 400 Index.
ArvinMeritor Inc. is a premier $7-billion global supplier of a broad range of
integrated systems, modules and components to the motor vehicle industry. The company serves light vehicle, commercial truck, trailer and specialty original equipment manufacturers and related aftermarkets. In
addition, ArvinMeritor is a leader in coil coating applications. The company is
headquartered in Troy, Mich., and employs 33,000 people at more than 150 manufacturing facilities in 27 countries. ArvinMeritor common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol ARM. For more information, visit the company’s Web site at: http://www.arvinmeritor.com/.
*Meritor WABCO products are available in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
# # #
Press Release PDF