Jacobs Debuts High Power Density Engine Brake for Europe

Jacobs Vehicle Systems Launches High Power Density Engine Brake

Jacobs Vehicle Systems has introduced its new High Power Density (HPD) Engine Brake at the IAA Commercial Vehicle show in Hannover, Germany. Designed for diesel and natural gas engines, this innovative technology significantly enhances compression release braking performance, particularly at lower RPMs, potentially doubling braking power in that range.

Key features of the HPD Engine Brake include:

Quiet operation with full integration into the engine’s overhead design.

Improved thermal management by maintaining exhaust catalyst temperature during descents.

Support for engine downspeeding and downsizing, aligning with industry fuel-efficiency trends.

Two braking events per cam rotation using a patented two-stroke mechanism, transforming the engine into a variable two-stroke compression device.

Unlike traditional hydraulic driveline retarders, which are heavier and less effective at low speeds, the HPD Engine Brake offers a lighter, more efficient solution for secondary braking. Jacobs sees it as a viable alternative to driveline retarders, improving payload capacity and braking efficiency.