Aug 29, 2012 11:00 AM

Webb Wheel has introduced the Vortex Unlimited, a cast brake drum now available for popular steer, drive, and trailer axle applications.

Vortex Unlimited, manufactured in the United States, has been designed to be durable and run cooler because of improved heat transfer efficiency. On drive and trailer axle configurations that include Webb’s patent-pending wear indicator, vehicle operators can expect 25% more life.

The new drum was engineered using inventive processes and testing to offer advantages over standard brake drums.  A center squealer band strengthens Vortex Unlimited, and cast-in exterior ribs conduct heat away from the brake surface, resulting in 10% lower operating temperatures. Dynamometer testing shows that heat generated by Vortex Unlimited during a braking event is less than with a standard brake drum.  Running with lower temperatures extends drum and lining life, and increases stopping performance. A wear indicator on the drums takes the guesswork out of wear measurements.

Vortex Unlimited drums are available in 15" x 4", 16.5" x 5", 16.5" x 7", 16.5" x 8", and 16.5" x 8.625" sizes from Webb distributors and can be used as a replacement for standard-duty cast brake drum applications.

For more information, visit www.webbwheel.com.