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Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC (Bendix) is reminding industry professionals about the upcoming completion of the EPA’s Copper-Free Brake Initiative, which will be finalized by January 2025. This initiative marks a significant milestone in reducing the use of copper and other harmful substances in brake friction materials. Bendix, a leader in commercial vehicle braking solutions, is preparing to introduce new copper-compliant friction materials as the previously allowed formulations are phased out.
Key Highlights:
- N-Level compliance will require a copper content of no more than 0.5% by weight starting January 2025.
- B-Level friction materials, including Bendix® BX276™ and BA236™, will be phased out by the end of 2024.
- New N-Level compliant replacement pads include Bendix® BX277™ (available late 2024) and Bendix® BA237™ (launching in early 2025).
- Customers can continue using B-Level friction until 2035, provided it was manufactured before January 1, 2025.
- Drum brake friction materials are also transitioning, with the non-compliant ES600 being discontinued by the end of 2024.
Progress Towards Sustainable Brakes
The Copper-Free Brake Initiative began in January 2015, involving multiple stakeholders, including the EPA, the Environmental Council of the States, and the automotive and commercial vehicle industries. This initiative was aimed at reducing copper, mercury, lead, asbestos, chromium-6, and cadmium content in brake pads to minimize their impact on the environment. Compliance has progressed in three phases: A-Level in 2015, B-Level in 2021, and N-Level in 2025.
For Bendix and its parent company, Knorr-Bremse, sustainability is a key value. Bendix has committed to developing technologies that promote cleaner air, reduced fuel usage, and a new generation of environmentally friendly vehicles. Bendix is also taking steps to educate the industry on N-Level friction requirements and marking packaging according to new guidelines.
Air Disc Brake Compliance
Bendix is ready to meet the N-Level compliance requirements for air disc brakes with its upcoming friction offerings. The current Bendix® BX276™ (K129276) and BA236™ (K182236) frictions will be phased out of production in Q4 2024. Their suitable replacements are the BX277™ (K297277), an OE-level pad, and the BA237™ (K182237), a new aftermarket friction that will be introduced in early 2025.
Customers are allowed to continue using B-Level friction produced before January 2025 until 2035. However, Bendix will cease the production of B-Level friction by the end of 2024. Bendix advises customers in California and Washington to consult specific state regulations for restrictions and additional compliance information.
Drum Brake Transition
Most Bendix drum brake friction materials are already compliant with the N-Level copper requirements. The one exception, ES600, will be discontinued at the end of 2024, ensuring that all Bendix drum brakes meet or exceed regulatory requirements.
Commitment to Safer Roads
Keith McComsey, Bendix Director of Air Disc Brake & Systems Product Group, emphasized the importance of this transition: “We’ll be ready to help our customers meet the new regulations that take effect on Jan. 1, 2025. Moving forward, we’ll continue to focus on optimizing friction for specific applications and improving the friction-couple performance between the rotor and pad so our customers can enjoy longer service life and lower total cost of ownership.”
Globally, Bendix and its parent company, Knorr-Bremse, continue to lead in air disc brake (ADB) production, surpassing 60 million units worldwide. Bendix solutions, including air disc brakes, drum brake systems, spring brakes, and automatic slack adjusters, focus on delivering safety, reliability, and lower total cost of ownership. Bendix’s commitment to advanced safety systems helps the commercial vehicle industry achieve safer roads for all.
About Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
Bendix, a member of Knorr-Bremse, develops and supplies advanced safety technologies, energy management solutions, and air brake systems for commercial vehicles across North America. Employing over 4,400 people, Bendix remains dedicated to improving vehicle safety, performance, and overall operating cost. For more information, contact 1-800-AIR-BRAKE (1-800-247-2725) or visit bendix.com. Stay informed with Bendix Knowledge Dock and learn from experts at brake-school.com.
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