This is How Disc Brakes Work on Cars
The hydraulic disc brake system is one of the most widely used types of brakes for vehicles. Whether it’s a car or a motorcycle, disc brakes are preferred due to their superior effectiveness. So, what is the secret of this system? Here is how disc brakes work on cars using the principle of Pascal's law.
Principle of Components in the Disc Brake System
The components of the disc brake system consist of six basic devices. These devices are the Disc or rotor, backing plate, connecting wheel, brake caliper, retaining screws, and brake pedal. The position of the disc itself is located behind the wheel, which allows it to interact directly with the movement of the car's wheels.
The underlying principle of the disc brake is Pascal's law, which relates to the use of hydraulic fluid in the braking system.
The continuous function of these components then produces another principle, namely the conversion of kinetic energy into thermal energy. The thermal energy is then released into the outside air.
Where does this thermal energy come from? If observed closely, it is due to the friction between the stationary medium (brake caliper) and the moving object (disc rotor). It can be said that the way disc brakes work will also reduce the rotation of the wheels and ultimately bring the vehicle to a stop.
Read also: Uncovering the Difference Between Disc Brakes and Drum Brakes
How It Works When the Brake Pedal is Activated
To clarify, the operational sequence of this system begins with the activation of the brake pedal. Or it can be said when you step on the brake pedal.
The systematic activity will start from the brake pedal, which will generate hydraulic pressure in the master cylinder. Due to this pressure, the piston related to the brake actuator will become active.
This piston will move the brake caliper, which is useful for stopping the rotor by force. Its operation is to clamp the rotor using two brake pads that are moved by the piston.
The effect of this clamping is that the rotor will experience resistance to continue rotating, which then generates heat due to friction. When the disc brake stops, the vehicle's tires will also be forced to stop or experience a reduction in speed.
The way disc brakes work will also create frictional effects on the tires and the asphalt surface. This often comes with loud squeaking sounds and a burnt smell due to the conversion of frictional force into heat.
Read also: 4 Signs You Need to Replace Your Car Brakes
How It Works When the Brake Pedal is Released
The clamping force system can be active and inactive depending on the brake pedal. When activated, the hydraulic force will perform its task. However, when the brake pedal is released, the hydraulic pressure will be released or lost.
The effect is that the brake caliper, piston, and also actuator will lose their strength for braking. At that moment, the way disc brakes work will completely end. The rotor, no longer clamped and disturbed in its rotation, will function again.
Basically, this system will also depend on the strength of the brake pedal press; the stronger the press, the tighter the grip of the pads and the braking force.
In general, the working principle of the disc brake consists of various activities that are interrelated. Starting from the conversion of frictional force between the rotating and stationary surfaces generating heat, to the configuration of several components overall in the vehicle system.
It can be concluded that the pedal will make the brake caliper clamp the disc to reduce the speed of the car.
