Transportation Components, which distributes Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) components to the aftermarket, has been appointed as the supplier of Duroline brake linings to Henred Fruehauf, the largest trailer and allied products manufacturer in South Africa.
Henred Fruehauf is using the Duroline brake linings in the foundation brakes of the trailers they manufacture. This move signals a break-through for Transportation Components in that it means they are not only supplying to the aftermarket – but to an OEM as well.
“This really demonstrates recognition for our quality products and excellent service and places us in a different league, completing the circle of quality, safety and consistency from our perspective,” says Dave Jenkins, managing director of Transportation Components.
Duroline is recognised worldwide as one of the largest manufacturers of friction material and uses state-of-the-art technology to produce brake linings for medium and heavy duty vehicles.
“The return of Henred Fruehauf to our customer base is not only an endorsement for our principal Duroline but also for Transportation Components’ commitment to South Africa’s heavy transportation sector,” says Patrick Bruinette, national sales manager of Transportation Components.
He adds that the braking system is one of the most critical parts of any truck and trailer combination because the sheer weight of a truck and trailer magnifies the consequences of an accident. “This is why heavy vehicle accidents are often blamed on a faulty braking system,” says Bruinette.
Transportation Components has had samples of its brake lining friction material tested to determine a baseline for the durability of various friction materials. According to Bruinette, the OEM Duroline brake linings were proven to be from 30 to 50 percent more durable.
The company also puts lot of effort into educating stakeholders in the transportation industry about the fact that brake friction material can vary in quality. According to Bruinette, trailer brakes must be maintained according to the specifications on the brake data plate. “The trailer is carrying the actual load and its brake system comprises of at least 50 percent of the complete vehicle combination braking system.”
An obviously delighted Jenkins ends by saying: “We are very proud of the recognition and kudos that this confers on Transportation Components. It really represents an important and significant quantum leap for us as a company.”
