What is a Brake System? Its Functions, Components, and How It Works
Understanding what a brake system is along with its functions, components, and how it works is very important. This system is one of the systems designed to ensure the safety of the driver or passengers in the car. For a more detailed discussion, just take a look at the following review.
What is a Brake System?
A brake system is the term for the braking system that functions to control the speed of the vehicle by adopting a mechanical system. This system is very important for vehicles to enhance safety and reduce the risk of fatal accidents due to the speed of the vehicle.
Functions of the Brake System
The brake system itself has very vital functions as follows.
1. Controlling the speed of the vehicle
As explained above, the brake system functions to control the speed of the vehicle by reducing its speed. The process of reducing the speed of the vehicle can occur drastically or gradually depending on the pressure applied to the brake pedal by the driver.
2. Holding the movement of the vehicle
In addition, the brake system also functions to hold the movement of the vehicle so that it does not roll backward or forward. This situation often occurs when the driver is about to park the vehicle in an uneven area by utilizing the parking brake or handbrake feature.
3. Safety feature
In addition to the two functions above, the brake system has the most important function as a safety feature for the driver or passengers of the vehicle. With this system, the driver can brake when wanting to maintain a distance from the vehicle in front to avoid a collision. Additionally, this system can minimize the potential for serious accidents.
Components of the Brake System
For the brake system to function properly, cooperation among its components is required. Here are the complete components.
1. Disc brake
To perform the braking process, this component utilizes disc brakes as the medium. When you press the brake pedal, the disc will be clamped by the brake, thereby reducing the rotational speed of the disc.
2. Drum brake
The drum brake component works similarly to the disc brake. When the brake pedal is pressed, the drum will be pressed by the brake lining.
3. Proportioning valve
This component functions to balance the braking pressure on both the front and rear brakes. Usually, the pressure on the rear brakes will be reduced compared to the front brakes.
4. Brake booster
This component serves to enhance the response of the brake pedal when pressed. With this component, the driver does not need to exert much effort when pressing the brake.
5. Brake pedal
This component is designed to resemble a lever and is part of the disc brake. This is the component that transmits the pressure from the driver's foot to the braking system.
6. Parking brake lever
This component functions to hold the vehicle stationary. This component is usually used when parking the vehicle on uneven surfaces, or on inclines or declines.
How the Brake System Works
The brake system has a working mechanism that converts kinetic energy (motion) into thermal energy (heat). When the driver presses the brake pedal, kinetic energy occurs. This energy is then transmitted to the braking system.
In the braking process, friction occurs between the disc, brake lining, and brake pads, generating heat (thermal energy). This thermal energy will mix with the surrounding air, producing braking force. However, if the heat generated is excessive, it can cause brake fade, reducing braking power.
Considering the importance of the braking system in vehicles, make sure you always pay attention to each of its components. If the brake pads and other components are worn out, immediately replace them at a Daihatsu authorized workshop.
