What is an Automotive Brake?

[DeNorah]

An automotive brake refers to the component that generates a force (braking force) to resist the movement or tendency of movement of a vehicle, including the retarder in the auxiliary braking system. It is the braking device of a car, and almost all brakes used in automobiles are friction-based, which can be divided into two main types: drum brakes and disc brakes. Principle of Drum Brakes: Inside the brake drum, hydraulic pressure acts on the pistons of the brake wheel cylinder, which push the curved brake shoes outward. Alternatively, the friction material riveted to the brake shoes presses against the inner surface of the brake drum, slowing down the rotation of the brake drum and the axle to achieve braking. Working Principle of Disc Brakes: Hydraulic oil is used to push the brake pads against the brake disc through the cylinder, generating friction to achieve braking. Disc brakes installed on high-speed shafts come in two specifications for braking torque: 10,000 N·m and 12,500 N·m. The diameter of the brake disc is uniformly 800 mm. Each set of brakes has four cylinders controlled by a single hydraulic system. Its features include high braking torque, excellent heat dissipation, adjustable oil pressure, and the ability to achieve stepless changes in braking torque during operation. The retarder is used as an auxiliary device to the braking system. For vehicles frequently driven in mountainous or hilly areas, it helps to continuously reduce or maintain a stable speed during long descents, thereby reducing or relieving the load on the service brake. The differences between drum brakes and disc brakes lie in braking force, heat dissipation performance, drainage capability, and structural design. Braking refers to the act of stopping a moving vehicle, and the brake is the component in the braking system that generates resistance to the vehicle's movement. Currently, friction brakes are universally used in automobiles, which generate braking torque through friction between stationary and rotating components. These are further divided into disc brakes and drum brakes. Specific differences are as follows: Difference in Braking Force: In terms of braking force, drum brakes far exceed disc brakes. This is not because drum brake technology is more advanced but due to its inherent structural characteristics. In a drum brake system, there is a drum-shaped metal object, which is the core component of drum brakes, hence the name. Difference in Heat Dissipation Performance: Drum brakes operate in an enclosed space, leading to poor heat dissipation. During braking, a significant amount of heat accumulates, causing complex deformations in the brake shoes and drum under high temperatures. This can lead to brake fade and vibration, reducing braking efficiency. Difference in Drainage Capability: Drainage is another advantage of disc brakes over drum brakes. When water enters the braking system, its impact on braking performance is evident. If the water cannot be drained promptly, braking performance will significantly decline. Structurally, the enclosed design of drum brakes is clearly less conducive to drainage compared to disc brakes. Difference in Structure: Disc brakes have a compact and simple structure, while drum brakes are relatively more complex. However, drum brakes can achieve the same braking force with a much smaller diameter than disc brakes. Difference in Heat Dissipation Effect: Disc brakes have exposed brake shoes, resulting in better heat dissipation and more stable braking performance. In contrast, drum brakes have brake linings inside the drum, making heat dissipation difficult. Prolonged braking can cause the braking force to diminish as heat increases.

[VanNicole]

The automobile brake, commonly known as the braking system, enables the vehicle to decelerate or come to a stop. When you press the brake pedal while driving, the pressure is transmitted to the brake calipers, which clamp the brake discs to create friction and resistance, preventing the wheels from continuing to rotate. Key components include the brake discs, brake pads, and brake fluid, all of which require regular maintenance to ensure safety. If there's a brake fluid leak or the brake pads are worn too thin, braking efficiency will decrease, posing significant risks, especially in rainy conditions or on steep slopes. I remember once driving in the mountains when the brakes failed, nearly causing an accident. Since then, I've made it a habit to check the brake disc thickness and brake fluid level every six months. Keeping the system clean is also crucial, as sand, dust, and grime can impair performance. Modern vehicles are also equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), which prevents wheel lock-up and skidding during emergency braking, significantly enhancing safety.