It turns out, this is how drum brakes work in cars.
There is no denying that a vehicle will not function perfectly without brakes. Being one of the components that plays an important role, brakes indeed serve to slow down a vehicle.
The braking system in each vehicle has differences from one another according to its type, for example, the working mechanism of drum brakes. Here is the review.
Working System of Drum Brakes
Perhaps some people still do not know what drum brakes are? The brakes attached to motor vehicles are a braking system that utilizes the friction method between the brake shoe and a bowl-shaped element. The design of this drum brake is supported by several important components.
These components include brake shoes or brake shoe, drum brake backing plate or backplate, return springs or return springs, drum, actuator lever or lever, and cam or driving cam.
Each element of the drum brake has its own function to create friction between the tire and the road surface.
When the driver presses the pedal to start the drum brake's working mechanism, it will automatically push the pushrod and the master cylinder piston simultaneously.
Read also: Revealing the Difference Between Disc Brakes and Drum Brakes
This pressure causes the piston to move forward, thereby narrowing its front volume. The volume containing brake fluid is pushed out through the outlet valve to the outlet house on the brake master.
Similar to hydraulic brakes, drum brakes also apply Pascal's law. Where the pressure of the liquid generated is transmitted in various directions with the same pressure magnitude.
The fluid that is pushed passes through the hydraulic hose and is directed into the Wheel Cylinder. The liquid in the wheel cylinder will be converted into mechanical energy by the piston.
After becoming mechanical energy, the piston located in the wheel cylinder will move outward to press the brake lining, causing the brake shoe to expand and create a pressing force between the brake shoe and the drum brake.
The pressure in the working mechanism of the drum brake generates friction and heat on the rotation of the brake drum. The rotation of the drum brake will gradually decrease and reduce the vehicle's speed to stop.
When the brake pedal is released by the driver, the springs around the brake pedal will pull it back to its original position. Likewise, the piston in the master cylinder will also be pulled back to its original position.
Read also: Understanding the Principles and Working of Car Brakes
Drum Brake Maintenance Tips
You should know that drum brakes are also referred to as internal expansion lining brakes. To ensure that the drum brakes on your beloved vehicle work optimally every time they are used.
It is advisable to always perform routine maintenance. The right way to maintain drum brakes is to remove and disassemble all drum brake units.
After removal, check the condition of the brake lining surface to see if it is smooth or not. If the brake surface is smooth, it will affect the working mechanism of the drum brake, so you need to sand it.
Next, check the thickness of the brake lining; if the lining is worn down, you need to replace it with a complete set.
Owning a vehicle is not just for driving. It is also good to pay attention to each of its important components in detail, one of which is the brakes.
Being the most urgent element, brakes play an important role in minimizing vehicle speed for the safety and security of the driver.
Read also: Tips for Choosing the Best Car Brake Pads
