In this article from Mana Tormoz, we will explore the different types of car brake systems and how each one works. The braking system is one of the most critical components of any vehicle and plays a fundamental role in ensuring the safety of both the driver and passengers. By the end of this article, you will be familiar with the various types of brake systems and how they function.
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Importance of the Braking System in Vehicles
To better understand the types of braking systems and how they work, we must first recognize the importance of this system in a vehicle. Cars are made up of various components, each essential for proper operation; however, the braking system holds a particularly critical role. A malfunctioning brake system can lead to serious accidents and irreparable damage.
For this reason, since the earliest designs of braking systems, automakers have continually worked to improve them, aiming to develop safer and more efficient versions. Today, modern vehicles are equipped with high-quality brakes that offer outstanding safety performance.
How the Car Braking System Works
To understand how a car’s braking system functions, it’s important to know that most brake systems (excluding magnetic and electric brakes, which are not commonly used) operate based on the principles of friction. When the brake pedal is pressed, the braking force generated is transferred to the wheels, converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy into heat energy—ultimately causing the vehicle to stop.
The amount of friction generated depends on the material of the brake pad and disc surfaces, the applied force, and the condition of the contact surface. As a result, when the driver presses the brake pedal, a force is applied to the wheels that slows down and stops the car.
Types of Car Brake Systems
Now that we understand the basics of how brakes work, let’s take a look at the different types of braking systems in cars and how they are categorized. Brake systems can be classified from various perspectives. In the following, we will examine the types of car brake systems based on their power source.
Mechanical Brake
In a mechanical brake system, the braking force is transferred to the wheels through mechanical components such as rods, mechanical linkages, and springs. This type of brake was mainly used in older vehicles. Due to its low efficiency, it is now generally no longer used in modern cars.
Hydraulic Brake
Hydraulic brakes use brake fluid to transmit braking force. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the applied force is sent to the master cylinder and then converted into hydraulic pressure. This pressure is transmitted through brake lines to the wheels and stops the vehicle. Hydraulic braking is currently the most common type used in passenger cars.
Air Brake (Pneumatic Brake)
In this type of brake, the braking force is generated using compressed air produced by a compressor and sent to the wheels. This system is mainly used in heavy-duty vehicles and trucks, as hydraulic brakes are not powerful enough to provide the necessary braking force for such vehicles. Air brakes offer more braking power than hydraulic ones and are suitable for large, heavy vehicles.
Vacuum Brake
Vacuum brakes are mostly used in trains. In this system, a vacuum is created in the brake lines, causing the brake pads to move toward the discs and stop the vehicle. This type of braking system is typically found in large public transport vehicles.
Magnetic Brake
Magnetic brakes use a permanent magnet to generate braking force. Through electromagnetic principles, this force is applied to the wheels. These brakes operate without any friction, which greatly reduces component wear. Magnetic braking systems involve advanced technology and are still rarely used in cars. They function faster than other brake types and are unique in this aspect.
Electric Brake
Electric brakes are especially common in electric and hybrid vehicles. This system is divided into several types:
Plugging Brake: When the brake pedal is pressed, the motor’s rotation direction is reversed, bringing the vehicle to a stop.
Regenerative Braking: In this system, the electric motor switches to generator mode, converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electrical energy and storing it in the battery. This type of brake reduces vehicle speed while also recovering energy.
Rheostat Braking: This system uses variable resistors in the braking circuit, and braking is achieved by dissipating energy through these resistors.
Types of Car Brake Systems from Different Perspectives
In this article, we will examine the various types of car brake systems from multiple viewpoints. Since the braking system plays a vital role in vehicle safety, understanding the differences in how these systems function and are structured can help highlight their importance.
Classification Based on Friction Application Method
In this type of classification, the method of generating friction in the final stage of braking—when contact with the wheels occurs—is the main focus. Based on this criterion, brake systems are divided into two main categories:
Drum Brakes
Drum brakes are older than disc brakes and contain most of their components within a drum. This drum is usually made of steel and houses two brake shoes inside. When the driver presses the brake pedal, hydraulic force causes the brake shoes to press against the inner wall of the drum. This pressure generates friction, converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy into heat and stopping the car. This system is commonly used in older vehicles or budget models.
Disc Brakes
The disc brake system consists of components such as brake pads, calipers, rotors, and pistons. When the brake pedal is pressed, brake fluid flows into the caliper and activates the metal pistons. These pistons push the brake pads against the rotor surface, generating friction. As a result, the kinetic energy of the wheels is efficiently converted into heat, stopping the vehicle. Disc brakes are now used in most modern vehicles due to their quick response and efficient performance.
Classification Based on Brake System Function
From the perspective of usage and function, braking systems are divided into two main types:
Foot Brake (Service Brake)
As the name suggests, this type of brake is designed to reduce speed or stop the vehicle while driving. The foot brake is used under normal, everyday driving conditions, and its primary function is to stop the moving vehicle.
Hand Brake (Parking Brake)
This brake is typically used when the vehicle is parked or during long stops. It operates independently of the foot brake. The hand brake is commonly used to keep the car stationary when parked, especially on slopes or inclines. It is sometimes referred to as the emergency brake.
Classification Based on Brake Force Distribution
This category focuses on how braking force is distributed to the wheels:
Single-Axle System
In this system, braking force is applied to only one pair of wheels—typically the front or rear. This type of system is usually found in older vehicles or in some small and lightweight cars.
Dual-Axle System
In a dual system, braking force is applied to all four wheels simultaneously. This type is commonly used in heavy vehicles such as buses and trucks. It ensures that braking power is evenly distributed across all wheels, resulting in more effective and safer stopping.
Advanced Brake Systems
There are also modern and advanced systems such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), and CBC (Cornering Brake Control) that enhance the overall performance of the braking system. These systems will be explained in more detail in future articles.
Conclusion
In this article, you became familiar with the different types of car brake systems and how they work.
If you’re planning to purchase a brake disc, visit the main page of the Mana Tormoz website.