Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems showcased its Global Scalable Air Treatment (GSAT) technology and electric air compressors (eCompressors) at the ACT Expo in Las Vegas, Nev. 

GSAT is a modular control system for compressed air-operated braking systems that is built to address evolving functionalities and environmental regulations while providing manufacturers with a high level of flexibility during installation. Meanwhile, the electric air compressors deliver quiet air supply ideal for electric and other alternative-fuel vehicles.

“Regardless of what’s fueling your fleet, most commercial vehicles out there – including EVs – continue to rely on compressed air for a range of crucial functions, including braking and advanced driver assistance systems,” said Jason Kolecki, Bendix director, marketing and customer solutions of air supply and drivetrain, in a news release. “GSAT and our eCompressors – motor and compressor – have key roles in supporting both safety and sustainability in the North American commercial vehicle industry.”

Compressed Air Control

Based on 20 years of development and field experience in electronic air control, GSAT can control both traditional air compressors as well as those operated by electric motors, the company said, adding its construction uses an aluminum plate, interior polymer components, and a steel plate to achieve the structural strength required to withstand the required air pressure levels.

“GSAT’s intelligent functional controller drives closer integration of the air compressor and air dryer, and it delivers fuel savings by incorporating a more intelligent charging strategy and directing the compressor speed control for optimal charging efficiency,” the release reads. 

The technology includes features from the Bendix Intellipark Electronic Parking Brake System, which automatically applies the brakes if the driver forgets, helping to prevent the vehicle from rolling away unexpectedly. This system can still operate without electricity, and incorporating it reduces the overall weight of the air treatment system, the company says, adding that GSAT also upgrades traditional brake features like anti-compounding and spring brake inversion by controlling them electronically, enhancing safety and reliability.

eCompressors 

Bendix also offers two types of electric air compressors: the ESM Electric Screw Module and the EVM Electric Vane Module. While the ESM model is ideal for vehicles with high air demands, such as transit buses and trucks, the EVM model is better for vehicles with low to medium air needs, like long-haul trucks, says Bendix. 

Both models are quiet and efficient, designed for electric and hybrid vehicles. They feature an integrated inverter for smooth operation and connect to the vehicle’s network to adjust air supply based on demand.