Reviewing How Hydraulic Brakes Work on Vehicles and Their Components
A mode of transportation would feel empty without brakes. In the automotive world, brakes are known as an important component of vehicles that function to reduce speed. One of the most commonly used types of brakes in every vehicle is the hydraulic brake. So how does a hydraulic brake work in a vehicle? Let's take a look at the discussion.
Working Principle
As the name suggests, hydraulic brakes are a brake distribution system that relies on fluid or hydro. The fluid used by this type of brake is a kind of fluid that has a higher resistance. The general concept applied in the working system of hydraulic brakes adheres to Pascal's law.
Generally, the working principle of brakes is based on the friction between the tires and the road surface. However, the working system of Pascal's law itself involves a material in the form of fluid that serves as a medium to transmit braking force from the brake pedal. The liquid used does not have compressible properties, making it suitable for transmitting pressure.
When the hydraulic brake operates, it starts by pressing the brake pedal, the connected pushrod will apply force to the piston in the master cylinder. This causes the front chamber of the piston to narrow and the reservoir line to close. Then, fluid from the brake oil reservoir flows to the pressure chamber through the compensation port.
This creates an increase in pressure throughout the hydraulic system, as the fluid is forced to flow through hydraulic lines to the capillaries or brake lines. The capillaries will transmit pressure to all capillary pistons or braking actuators equally. The brake lines are sealed with O-rings to prevent fluid leakage.
Read also: Understanding the Principles and Working of Car Brakes
Once the fluid pressure reaches the wheel cylinder, the pressurized brake fluid will activate the piston to press the brake pads against the rotating rotor. The friction between the pads and the rotor generates torque, causing the vehicle to slow down. And that is when the hydraulic brake operates.
The heat energy generated by this friction is dissipated through air circulation and channels in the rotor. The brake pads used in this process are made from special heat-resistant materials due to friction, such as sintered glass or Kevlar. This hydraulic brake system can be found in several modes of transportation that have heavy pressure capabilities, such as bicycles.
Components of the Hydraulic Brake System
While performing its function, the hydraulic brake system is supported by several main components. First, the master cylinder, which is located after the brake pedal and functions to convert the swinging motion of the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure. In this master cylinder, there are pistons and several channels called the reservoir and main hose.
Second, the brake lines, which are several connecting hoses between components in the hydraulic brake system. These brake lines are produced using two materials, namely special rubber and metal. Third, the wheel cylinder, which plays a role in the hydraulic brake operation by converting the fluid pressure back into mechanical movement.
As is known, brakes are one of the important components in a vehicle. Without brakes, a person's safety while driving could be at risk. Each mode of transportation is equipped with different brakes according to the type of vehicle.
