HYDRAULIC BRAKE SYSTEM

INTRODUCTION :
A Hydraulic system uses liquid under pressure to transfer force, move an object,
or increase its force. The fluid pressure is known as hydraulic pressure. Brakes
that are operated using hydraulic pressure are called hydraulic [Link] type
of braking system transfers pressure from the controlling mechanism to the
braking mechanism using brake fluid, usually glycol ether.

The first four-wheel hydraulic brake system for a motor car was developed and
installed by Ernest Walter Weight in [Link] drum type of hydraulic braking
system is primarily found in low-speed four-wheelers, while the disc type of
hydraulic brakes is used in almost all cars. In addition, some types of
motorcycles also use these [Link] brakes are entirely dependent on
the principle of Pascal’s Law. “The pressure exerted anywhere in a confined
liquid is transmitted undiminished in all directions” this is what the Pascal law
states.

PARTS :
1 Brake Pedal

The whole braking assembly will start working when the brake pedal is pressed.
When the driver applies force on the brake pedal, the movement of the vehicle
slows down or stopsThe pedal is connected to the master cylinder with a
mechanical contact, such as a spring. After the action of the brake pedal, the
master cylinder comes into play.

2 Master Cylinder

This is the key part of the system that converts the pressure on the brake pedal
into hydraulic pressure. A master cylinder performs multiple functions, including
developing pressure, equalizing the brake pressure, preventing contaminants,
[Link] this, the fluid is compressed and pressurized into the cylinder, which is
transmitted via hydraulic lines to the brake assembly. The master cylinder
consists of various parts such as a reservoir, piston, rubber cup, pressure check
valve, and more.

3 Wheel Cylinder

This device converts hydraulic pressure into mechanical pressure to push the
brake shoes towards the drum. The wheel cylinder is located in each wheel and
is usually located at the top of the wheel, above the [Link] function is to force
the shoes into contact with the drum and protect the vehicle from friction. There
are two main types of wheel cylinders: stepped wheel cylinders and single-piston
wheel cylinders.
4 Brake Fluid Reservoir

The brake fluid reservoir stores and protects the vehicle’s brake fluid so the
braking system can function correctly. The storage is usually small and is
connected directly to the master cylinder for proper operation of hydraulic
[Link] must be a sufficient amount of braking fluid throughout the
assembly. In some cases, due to small leaks, the brake fluid level drops in the
master cylinder. Therefore, a reservoir is required to maintain the proper level.

5 Hydraulic Lines & Hose

The brake line and hose transfer high-pressure fluid between the various
components. Simply put, they are like pipes in which the braking fluid passes
from the master cylinder to the brakes. Brake lines are rigid and constructed
using double-wall steel tubing.

6 Brake Calipers

The brake caliper is an essential part found in a disc brake system. Its function is
to hold and guide the brake pads. Also, it converts hydraulic pressure in the
brake system into mechanical force by using one or more pistons.

7 Brake Fluid

Modern cars use brake fluid as a liquid chemical solution for hydraulic braking. It
is this medium that transfers pressure to the wheel cylinders. Hydraulic brake
fluid must have a low freezing point, high boiling point, lubrication,
non-corrosiveness, and proper viscosity.

CONSTRUCTION
The constructional arrangement of hydraulic brakes consists of various parts
such as the brake pedal or level, a pulley, also known as an actuating rod, and a
piston in a master cylinder [Link] master cylinder includes one or two
pistons, a return spring, a series of gaskets or O rings, and a fluid reservoir. In
addition, it also featured reinforced hydraulic lines and brake caliper assembly.
The brake caliper assembly consists of one or two hollow aluminum pistons
(called caliper pistons), a set of thermally conductive brake pads, and a brake
[Link] is usually filled with glycol-ether brake fluid, though other fluids can also be
used. At one time, passenger vehicles usually had drum brakes on all four
wheels. Generally, disc brakes are used for the front wheels, while drum brakes
are used for the rear wheels.

WORKING
The working of the hydraulic braking system is straightforward. To understand the
function of these brakes, let’s consider disc brake and drum brake. In both types,
initial work is similar, but performance styles [Link] using disc brakes, the
brake calipers and discs apply the brake, whereas when using drum brakes, the
brake shoes and drums apply the brake. Let us understand the working of these
two brakes in detail.

ADVANTAGES
1. These brakes have a large contact area, which supports heat
dissipation.
2. Hydraulic brakes rarely fail, making them reliable at high speeds.
3. These brakes work better in wet and muddy conditions than
mechanical brakes.
4. Since it is a hydraulic system, it includes power, accuracy, efficiency,
and ease of maintenance.

DISADVANTAGES
1. They have a relatively high price compared to mechanical brakes.
2. The brake fluid used in the braking system must be compatible with
the brake material.
3. Braking fluid leakage may occur, which will result in brake failure.
4. Unlike mechanical brakes, hydraulic brakes require more
maintenance and construction.
APPLICATIONS
1. These types of brakes are primarily used in cars and other
automobile applications.
2. Drum-type hydraulic brakes are used in some low-speed
four-wheelers like trolly vehicles.
3. Disc-type hydraulic brakes are used in almost all cars and also be
used in bikes.
4. Single-acting hydraulic brakes are used as front brakes in some
types of bikes.
5. Dual-acting hydraulic brakes are used in almost all vehicles.
6. In addition to automotive applications, these brakes can also be seen
in oil field operations.
7. Additionally, it is also used in power generation stations such as wind
turbines.

CONCLUSION
Due to their advantages and ease of use, hydraulic brake systems are becoming
increasingly popular. Vehicles of all types, including automobiles, bikes, cars, and
heavy trucks, are adopting this [Link] fluid used in this system may vary
according to its application. This is because heavy-duty vehicles require more
pressure to apply the brakes. Currently, some of its applications can also be
found in mopeds.