What Are the Types of Brakes?
3 Answers
Here is the classification of brakes: 1. Brakes: Divided into industrial brakes and automotive brakes, the braking system can be categorized into mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electromagnetic, and other types. The general working principle of the braking system is to use the mutual friction between non-rotating components connected to the vehicle body (or frame) and rotating components connected to the wheels (or drive shaft) to hinder the rotation or tendency of rotation of the wheels. 2. According to the structural form of the braking component: It can be divided into external block brakes, internal expanding shoe brakes, band brakes, disc brakes, etc. 3. According to the working state of the braking component: It can be divided into normally closed brakes (usually in a tightened state, requiring external force to release the brake) and normally open brakes (usually in a released state, requiring external force to apply the brake). 4. According to the control method: It can be divided into manually operated, hydraulically operated, pneumatically operated, and electromagnetically operated brakes.
There are so many types of brakes. As an experienced driver who has driven various vehicles, disc brakes are the most commonly used. They consist of a disc and calipers that clamp down during braking, offering fast heat dissipation and responsive performance, making them ideal for high-speed driving and mountain roads. Drum brakes are enclosed within a drum and operate by expanding brake shoes, featuring lower maintenance costs but poorer heat dissipation, sometimes used in low-speed urban driving. The parking brake, also known as the handbrake or footbrake, can be mechanical lever-type or electric, primarily used to prevent the vehicle from rolling when parked. Additionally, the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) prevents wheel lock-up and is now a standard feature in most new cars. Regenerative braking is exclusive to electric vehicles, recovering energy during braking to recharge the battery. For everyday driving, disc brakes are safer due to less heat fade, while drum brakes are more economical but require careful maintenance. Checking brake fluid and pad wear is crucial, and any abnormalities should be addressed promptly.
From a safety perspective, brakes should never be taken lightly. Having driven trucks for ten years, I can categorize brakes into several types: disc brakes are structurally simple with good heat dissipation and shorter braking distances in rainy conditions; drum brakes offer strong braking force but suffer from severe heat fade, potentially leading to overheating failure during prolonged downhill driving; parking brakes come in mechanical and electronic variants, requiring regular testing to prevent vehicle rollaway; ABS is lifesaving during emergency braking by preventing loss of control; on electric vehicles, regenerative braking systems help reduce brake load. My maintenance routine includes replacing brake pads every 2-3 years and annual brake fluid checks. Brake failure at high speeds is extremely hazardous—when choosing vehicles, prioritize disc brakes, while drum brakes suit budget-constrained scenarios.
