Abstract: A method of derating a retarding grid assembly of a machine is provided. The method may determine the temperatures of resistive elements and insulators associated with the retarding grid assembly, generate a trigger if any one of the temperatures of the resistive elements and insulators exceeds a respective temperature threshold, and determine a magnitude of deration to be applied to a drivetrain associated with the machine in response to the trigger. The magnitude of deration may be based at least partially on feedback and feedforward analyzes of the temperatures of the resistive elements and insulators. The magnitude of deration may correspond to a reduction in retarding capacity of the drivetrain.

Abstract: A method of derating a retarding grid assembly of a machine is provided. The method may determine the temperatures of resistive elements and insulators associated with the retarding grid assembly, generate a trigger if any one of the temperatures of the resistive elements and insulators exceeds a respective temperature threshold, and determine a magnitude of deration to be applied to a drivetrain associated with the machine in response to the trigger. The magnitude of deration may be based at least partially on feedback and feedforward analyses of the temperatures of the resistive elements and insulators. The magnitude of deration may correspond to a reduction in retarding capacity of the drivetrain.

Abstract: A cooling system (100) for a retarding grid (118) having a plurality of resistors (120) and insulators (122) is provided. The cooling system (100) may include a blower (130) configured to actively cool the retarding grid (118) and a controller (134) configured to selectively enable the blower (130). The controller (134) may enable the blower (130) based on thermal characteristics of the resistors (120) and the insulators (122) of the retarding grid (118). The thermal characteristics may include a current resistor temperature and a projected insulator temperature.