Why can't the braking ratio exceed 100%?
2 Answers
Braking ratio can exceed 100%. Definition of braking ratio: The braking ratio of a vehicle refers to the ratio between the total brake shoe pressure of a locomotive or vehicle and its weight. If the vehicle is empty, it's called empty car braking ratio; if the vehicle is loaded (according to standard loading capacity), it's called loaded car braking ratio. The vehicle (or locomotive) braking ratio represents the necessary braking capability for a newly designed vehicle to stop within specified braking distance during emergency braking at construction speed. Impact of braking ratio: Due to significant passenger fluctuations in subway vehicles which greatly affect total vehicle weight, subway braking systems are required to have automatic load-dependent braking force adjustment functionality. Advanced subway braking systems adopt computer-controlled analog electronic braking systems. They employ comprehensive braking methods including regenerative braking, rheostatic braking, and friction braking using compressed air as power source.
I've been into cars for years, and this is a common question. The braking rate cannot exceed 100%, primarily due to the laws of physics—conservation of energy. When the braking system works, it can only convert the kinetic energy of the wheels into thermal energy, with the maximum efficiency being 100%, meaning all energy is absorbed. Exceeding 100% is like saying you can extract more heat from a cup of water than the water itself contains—impossible! The friction coefficients of brake pads and tires have natural limits, typically peaking around 1.2. In real driving, ABS helps us approach 100%, but it can never surpass it. For safety, regularly check brake disc and pad wear, and don’t believe those ultra-high-performance ads—they’re all hype. Remember, driving safety is key; maintain your braking system diligently to avoid overheating or failure.
