Car Brake System Wikipedia
Introduction
A car brake system is a mechanical system that slows down or stops a vehicle. It consists of brake pads or shoes, brake rotors or drums, calipers or wheel cylinders, and master cylinder. When the brake pedal is pressed, the master cylinder sends brake fluid to the calipers or wheel cylinders. This pressure forces the brake pads or shoes against the brake rotors or drums, which slows down or stops the wheels.
Types of Brake Systems
There are two main types of brake systems: disc brakes and drum brakes.
* Disc brakes are the most common type of brake system in cars. They consist of a brake rotor, which is attached to the wheel, and a brake caliper, which houses the brake pads. When the brake pedal is pressed, the brake caliper squeezes the brake pads against the brake rotor, which slows down or stops the wheel.
* Drum brakes are less common than disc brakes. They consist of a brake drum, which is attached to the wheel, and brake shoes, which are housed inside the brake drum. When the brake pedal is pressed, the brake shoes press against the brake drum, which slows down or stops the wheel.
Components of a Brake System
The main components of a brake system are:
* Brake pads or shoes: These are the friction materials that press against the brake rotors or drums to slow down or stop the vehicle.
* Brake rotors or drums: These are the metal surfaces that the brake pads or shoes press against to slow down or stop the vehicle.
* Calipers or wheel cylinders: These are the hydraulic devices that apply pressure to the brake pads or shoes.
* Master cylinder: This is the reservoir that stores brake fluid and sends it to the calipers or wheel cylinders when the brake pedal is pressed.
How Brake Systems Work
When the brake pedal is pressed, the master cylinder sends brake fluid to the calipers or wheel cylinders. This pressure forces the brake pads or shoes against the brake rotors or drums, which slows down or stops the wheels.
The amount of pressure applied to the brake pedal determines the amount of force applied to the brake pads or shoes. This, in turn, determines the amount of braking force applied to the wheels.
Maintenance of Brake Systems
Brake systems require regular maintenance to ensure that they are working properly. This includes:
* Checking the brake fluid level and condition
* Inspecting the brake pads or shoes for wear
* Inspecting the brake rotors or drums for wear
* Lubricating the brake calipers or wheel cylinders
* Replacing the brake fluid every two years
Troubleshooting Brake Problems
If you are experiencing any brake problems, it is important to have them checked out by a mechanic. Some common brake problems include:
* Spongy brake pedal: This can be caused by air in the brake lines or a leak in the brake master cylinder.
* Brake pedal pulsation: This can be caused by warped brake rotors or drums.
* Grinding noise when braking: This can be caused by worn brake pads or shoes.
* Squealing noise when braking: This can be caused by worn brake pads or shoes.
Conclusion
Brake systems are an essential part of any car. They help to slow down or stop the vehicle and prevent accidents. It is important to keep your brake system in good working condition by following the maintenance schedule and having any problems checked out by a mechanic.
