Retarder (mechanical engineering)

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A retarder is a device used to augment or replace some of the functions of primary friction-based braking systems, usually on heavy vehicles. Retarders serve to slow vehicles, or maintain a steady speed while traveling down a hill, and help prevent the vehicle from unintentional or uncontrolled acceleration when travelling on a road surface with an uneven grade. They are not usually capable of bringing vehicles to a standstill because their effectiveness diminishes as a vehicle's speed lowers. Instead, they are typically used as an aid to slow vehicles, with the final braking done by a conventional friction braking system. An added benefit retarders can provide is an increase in the service life of the friction brake, as it is used less often, particularly at higher speeds. With air-actuated brakes they also serve a dual purpose in conserving air pressure. Friction-based braking systems are susceptible to brake fade when used extensively for continuous periods. This can be dangerous...

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