Automobile Braking System: Definition, Types, Principle [with pdf]

What Is Automobile Braking System?

An automobile Braking System is a system that is used for retardation or to stop vehicles by virtue of friction.

It is an important part of the automobile. It works against the momentum kinetic energy of the vehicle.

The main aim of the brake system is to retard the vehicle or to stop the vehicle. It is also used to stop vehicles on an inclined surface against gravity.

Brake torque is the amount of torque applied by the shoe on the brake drum or disc.

It is important that when brakes are applied, the vehicle should stop at less distance without skidding of tires.

Working principle Of Braking System:

Brake works on the principle of Friction. It states that two bodies in contact with each other having relative motion between them offer resistance force to the motion. It is because of surface properties known as the Coefficient of Friction.

In this case brake drum or disc is in motion and brake shoes are stationary.

When we apply the brake, the brake shoe and brake drum come in contact with each other. Due to the frictional resistance kinetic Energy of the brake drum is converted into heat.

Thus Motion of the vehicle slows down or it gets stopped.  

Types of brake:

The classification of braking systems on different aspects are as follows:-

1) As per actuation:-

  1. Mechanical Brake
  2. Hydraulic Brake
  3. Pneumatic or Air Brake
  4. Electrical Brake
  5. Vacuum Brake
  6. Magnetic Brake

2) As per application:-

  • Hand Brake or Parking Brake
  • Foot Brake or Service Brake  

3) As per operation:-

  1. Power Operated Brake
  2. Servo Brake
  3. Manual Brake

4) As per construction:-

  1. Drum Brake
  2. Disc Brake

5) As per braking contact:-

  1. Internally Expanding Brake
  2. Externally Contracting Brake

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Pratik is a Graduated Mechanical engineer. He enjoys sharing the engineering knowledge learned by him with people.

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