What is a Drum Brake on a Car? This is its Function & How it Works
Drum brake is one of the components of the car braking system. This component has a quite vital function and a specific way of working. To help you understand this component better, let's take a look at the function and operation of the drum brake below.
What is a Drum Brake?
Hearing the term drum brake, some people may not recognize this component. The drum brake itself is actually another term for drum brake. The drum brake is divided into several types. Here are the complete types.
1. Single Leading Shoes Type
This type of drum brake has two brake pads that work independently and not simultaneously. The first pad functions as the main shoe, while the other pad serves to support the performance of the first pad.
2. Two Leading Shoes Type
This type of drum brake consists of two brake pads that work simultaneously to slow down the vehicle's speed. To stop the vehicle, both brake pads move in opposite directions.
3. Leading and Trailing Shoes Type
This type of drum brake has two brake pads or shoes. The first brake pad functions as the main shoe that stops the rotation of the drum (leading). Meanwhile, the other pad serves as an auxiliary to stop the vehicle's speed during braking (trailing).
4. Dual Fixed Cylinder Type
This type of drum brake has four pistons from both wheel cylinders. When you brake, all four pistons are pushed by the brake shoes due to the hydraulic pressure from the brake pedal. From this process, the friction force generated is so great that it can stop the vehicle's speed.
Function of Drum Brake
Speaking of the function of the drum brake, this component has the main function of controlling the speed of the vehicle during the braking process. Thus, the vehicle speed that was initially fast can be reduced or stopped directly by the drum brake.
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How Drum Brake Works
The operation of the drum brake can be said to be systematic and gradual. Inside the drum brake, there are many components that work together so that the drum brake can operate optimally. When you press the brake pedal, the master cylinder piston and the pushrod element will be pressed simultaneously.
This process causes the piston to move, pushing the brake fluid out through the outlet house via the outlet valve. Next, the fluid is channeled to the wheel cylinder. This causes the piston to convert the push force of the fluid into mechanical energy.
After that, the piston will press the brake lining, causing the brake shoe to expand. This process also causes the brake shoe to press against the drum brake. The pressure will then create friction and heat against the rotation of the drum brake. The rotation will slow down and reduce the vehicle's speed until it can be stopped.
When you release the brake pedal, the spring in the brake pedal area will automatically return all drum brake components to their original position.
Considering the very important function of the drum brake, you need to check this component regularly and periodically. Because if left unchecked, the car's braking system becomes less optimal. This can impact driving safety. Immediately replace the drum brake if the surface of the brake lining is already smooth. You can replace the brake lining at the nearest Daihatsu workshop to get quality original spare parts and proper service.
