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All about Disk Brakes, Drum Brakes, and ABS

There are two types of vehicle brakes supported by a safety system :

1. A DISK BRAKE SYSTEM: The principles of a disc brake are applicable to almost any rotating shaft. It uses calipers to squeeze pairs of brake pads against a disc to create friction and so slowing down- or stopping a vehicle. Hydraulically actuated disc brakes are the most commonly used form of brake for motor vehicles.

  • Brake pads - pushed into the rotor, creating the friction that slows and stops a car

  • Piston - a cylinder connected to the brake system hydraulics

  • Rotor - a circular disc bolted to the wheel hub that spins with the wheel

  • Caliper - housing that fits over the rotor and holds the brake pads and pistons, as well as contains ducting for the brake fluid 

  • Sensors: Some vehicles have brakes that contain sensors embedded in the brake pads which work to tell the driver when the pads are worn out. Other brake sensors are part of a vehicle's ABS system (Anti-lock Braking System).

2. A DRUM BRAKE SYSTEM: This is a brake in which brake shoes press on the inner surface of the drum. When the brake pedal is applied the two curved brake shoes, which have a friction material lining, are forced by hydraulic wheel cylinders against the inner surface of a rotating brake drum that uses friction caused by a set of shoes or pads that press outward against a rotating cylinder-shaped part called a brake drum that consists of:

  • Hydraulic wheel cylinders

  • Brake shoes

  • A brake drum.

3. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) - is anti-lock braking-, as well as an anti-skid braking system. ABS operates by preventing the wheels from locking up during braking, thereby maintaining tractive contact with the road surface. The system monitors wheels during heavy braking. Each wheel has a sensor attached to it. If the sensors detect that a wheel is about to lock up and stop moving, the system will release the brake for a moment. ABS then continuously and repeatedly applies optimum braking pressure to each wheel, effectively breaking just long enough to prevent the wheels from locking. It also reduces the risk of skidding. How effective is ABS:

  • It decreases the chance of collisions on wet and dry roads. Experience in snow, ice, or gravel may be different.

  • Vehicles fitted with ABS are less likely to be involved in fatal accidents.

  • No driver can brake as fast and effective as the system.

4. Find professional service providers online, 24/7 nationwide in the Auto Repair Directory

Posted on May 21, 2020 by Auto Repair Directory

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