Feb 1, 2006 12:00 PM

Accuride Corp introduces the Gunite Optimum Lightweight Drum (GOLD). Gunite Corp, a subsidiary of Accuride, supplies wheel-end systems and components for the heavy- and medium-duty truck market.

“GOLD brake drums are designed to be an optimum balance between durability and thermal capability, providing the performance of Gunite's standard full-cast drums, yet saving as much as 170 pounds vs standard full-cast drums on a typical tractor/trailer combination,” said Larry Taylor, Accuride's senior vice-president of sales and marketing.

“During two years of GOLD drum field-testing, fleets reported longer drum life without increased lining wear,” said Dr Omar Fakhoury, vice-president/General Manager of Gunite. “Collectively, drum life expectancy was reported to increase in front (steer) axle applications by 50% to 75%, rear (drive) axle applications by 20% to 50%, and trailer axle applications by 20% to 40%. Gunite field-testing is also showing that GOLD brake drums are effective in reducing brake drum ‘squeal’ vs lightweight steel shell composite brake drums.”

For more details, contact Accuride, Santa Fe Springs CA.