What Is a Car Brake?
Car brake is a device used to slow down or stop an automobile. Car brakes, also known as foot brakes, are activated by depressing the pedal with the foot. They are distinguished into two main types: disc brakes and drum brakes.
Either of these two types, or a combination of both, is used in car braking systems. Disc brakes, once exclusive to luxury cars, are now more common in various vehicles.
Uses of Car Brakes
Car brakes are essential for slowing or stopping a vehicle. They are activated when the driver steps on the foot brake.
Activating the car brake is straightforward, requiring the driver to press the foot brake. However, sudden application can result in emergency braking, which should be done with caution.
To slow down and stop smoothly, gently press the brake with your toes without engaging the heel initially. As the vehicle slows, slightly ease off before coming to a stop, and then firmly apply the brake. This technique allows for smooth deceleration and stopping.
Principles of Car Brakes
Depressing the foot pedal applies pressure to the brake fluid in the car’s brake system. This hydraulic pressure activates the brake at the tire section.
1. Disc Brakes
Disc brakes convert the kinetic energy of the vehicle into thermal energy using disc rotors and brake pads. The brake pads clamp onto the disc rotor, which rotates with the wheels, creating friction that slows and stops the vehicle. Modern disc rotors often feature ventilation channels for efficient heat dissipation, especially useful at high speeds or during prolonged braking.
2. Drum Brakes
Drum brakes use a drum and brake shoes to decelerate and stop the vehicle. When applied, the brake shoes expand against the rotating drum, converting kinetic energy into thermal energy through friction. Though less powerful than disc brakes, drum brakes are cost-effective and still used in some models.
Other Information on Car Brakes
1. Hand Brake
Also known as hand brakes, these are used to secure a vehicle while parked. They operate a brake drum or disc connected to the rear wheels via a cable. Modern vehicles sometimes use electronically controlled hand brakes, which offer smoother operation and additional safety and comfort features.
2. Automatic Braking System
The automatic emergency braking system (AEB) helps prevent accidents by automatically applying the brakes when a potential collision is detected. Using radar, cameras, and ultrasonic sensors, AEB assesses the risk of collision and either warns the driver or applies the brakes automatically. While AEB enhances safety, it is supplementary and requires driver vigilance.