Abstract: In the trucking industry, a wheel stud having a recess at either end to accommodate a sacrificial insert of metal higher in the electromotive series of metals than the metals of the wheel stud assembly, the lug and the components joined thereby and being of sufficient difference in color from the surrounding materials so as to be readily visible without disassembling the combination, and a method for its use.

Abstract: Particular embodiments of the present invention provide novel fluid-cooled cylinder liners. Preferred liners are annular cylinders containing a plurality of passages, arranged generally parallel to the axis of the cylinders, and integrated between the inner and outer surfaces of the cylinders. Preferably, the integral passages are arranged so that they are typically closer to the outer surface of the liner than the inner surface. Each passage has at least two openings. A passage with two openings on opposite end of the cylinder runs the entire length of the liner, while a passage with a opening at one end of the liner and a second opening along a surface of the liner runs only for a fraction of the liner length. In preferred embodiments, openings on the outer surface of the liner will be arranged in a circle lying on a plane perpendicular to the axis of the cylinder, and near either end of the cylinder; ensuring that each passage traverses the majority of the length of the liner.

Abstract: The invention provides a lightweight brake drum (10) comprising a lightweight, tubular inner member (14) having a reinforcement wrapping retention pattern (e.g., groove) cast in the exterior surface thereof, a length of reinforcement material (e.g., wrapped wire, cable, mesh, fibers, etc.) (16) in communication with a reinforcement retention pattern (e.g., a groove around the inner member) (14), the drum including an outer shell (18). The inner member (14) and the outer shell (18) are made of lightweight materials. Single, or multiple layers of reinforcement material (e.g. wrapping) are applied (e.g., wrapped) around the inner member (14) to support and inhibit expansion of the inner member (14). Because the reinforcement material (16) provides support against expansion, the inner member (14) and the outer shell (18) can be made of lightweight materials.

Abstract: Novel composite disc brake rotor assemblies are provided, along with novel and efficient methods for manufacturing them. Preferably, the rotor assemblies comprise annular wear plates formed of particle reinforced aluminum-based metal matrix composite (MMC), ceramic matrix composite (CMC), or of ‘carbon graphite foam.’ The wear plates, made of a first material, are attached to annular surfaces of a central rotor, made of a second material, by fusing bonding layers between the wear plates and the rotor surfaces. The bonding layers are comprised of at least one of a metal alloy having a melting temperature lower than that of either the first or second materials, and a high-temperature adhesive. Preferably, the wear plates comprise projections that are positioned within adjacent receiving recesses in the center rotor. The bonding layers and projections enhance thermal and acoustical transference between the wear plates and the center rotor section.

Abstract: In the trucking industry, a wheel stud having a recess at either end to accommodate a sacrificial insert of metal higher in the electromotive series of metals than the metals of the wheel stud assembly, the lug and the components joined thereby and being of sufficient difference in color from the surrounding materials so as to be readily visible without disassembling the combination, and a method for its use.