How To Calculate Braking Torque

[kthree]

For a project we have been brainstorming, we would like to calculate the amount of torque to be overcome to stop an axel on a loaded trailer. Any directions of where material on this subject may be found would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, K.

 

[ivymike]

start with figuring the maximum tangential force developed by the tires at the road interface for a given load
convert that to torque at the axle
if your brake applies more torque to the axel than the tires can, the axle will stop (eventually - you still have a little wheel+axle inertia to overcome).

 

[kthree]

Thanks ivymike. Appreciate the quick response. K.

 

[FeX32]

Is it a rolling trailer?

Fe

 

[kthree]

Yes, a fully loaded flatbed 18 wheeler, 80,000# GVW. K.