DuraBrake has introduced a lightweight steel shell brake drum to its current brake drum and air disc brake offering.

Resulting in a lighter, stronger brake drum, the steel shell brake drum is made using a formed steel outer shell for greater strength. Liquid cast iron is poured as the shell is spun centrifugally to evenly distribute the braking material.

The brake is also designed to be safer, according to DuraBrake. The steel shell is stronger than normal cast iron, preventing the drum for shattering or falling apart in extreme circumstances. The steel shell allows for 15-20% weight savings over a normal cast drum which can improve fuel mileage and increase payloads, according to DuraBrake.

“We introduced this product in order to offer our customers a premium, safer product at competitive pricing,” said Shaun Shroff, vice president for DuraBrake. “With increased volumes of lightweight drums needed, one day we should be able to offer this drum at the same pricing as a normal cast iron brake drum.”