Brake systems are one of the most critical components of vehicle safety. Today, various braking systems are used depending on vehicle types and driving conditions. In this article, we will examine in detail different brake technologies such as hydraulic brake, air brake, ABS, ASR, ESP, EBD, BAS, magnetic braking, MSR, hill start assist, and EPB.
Hydraulic Brake System
The hydraulic brake system is the most commonly used braking technology in passenger cars. Its working principle is as follows:
- When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic fluid pressure moves the piston.
- The calipers, under this pressure, compress the brake pads against the disc.
- The friction between the disc and the pads slows down or stops the vehicle.
Advantages:
- High braking performance
- Relatively easy maintenance
- Ideal for light and mid-range vehicles
Disadvantages:
- If hydraulic fluid leaks, the brakes fail.
- In cases of overheating, braking effectiveness may decrease.
Air Brake System
Used in heavy-duty vehicles (trucks, buses, trailers), the air brake system operates with compressed air.
When the brake pedal is pressed, the air compressor activates and enables braking.
Unlike hydraulic brakes, even if there’s an air leak, the brakes gradually engage.
Advantages:
- More effective braking under heavy loads
- Durable and long-lasting
Disadvantages:
- The system setup is more complex
- Higher maintenance costs
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
ABS prevents wheel lock-up during sudden braking and helps maintain steering control.
Sensors continuously monitor the wheel rotation speed.
If a wheel starts to lock, ABS activates and adjusts the brake pressure.
Advantages:
- Safe braking on slippery surfaces
- Controlled stopping
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
- ASR works with ABS to prevent wheel spin.
- ESP prevents skidding in sharp turns and sudden maneuvers.
EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
- EBD optimizes the brake force distribution between the front and rear brakes.
- It adjusts brake force according to the vehicle’s load.
- Ensures balanced and safer stopping.
BAS (Brake Assist System) and EPB (Electronic Parking Brake)
- BAS activates maximum braking force in emergency situations.
- EPB replaces the traditional handbrake with an electronic system.
Disc Brakes vs. Drum Brakes: Which Is Better?
Disc brakes and drum brakes are the two main types of brakes used in vehicles, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Disc brakes offer superior cooling performance, while drum brakes fall short in this aspect. However, disc brakes are more expensive, whereas drum brakes are more economical.
In terms of maintenance, disc brakes are easier to inspect, while drum brakes are more difficult to service.
Looking at the usage areas, disc brakes are generally used on front wheels, and drum brakes are preferred for rear wheels.
The main reason drum brakes are still widely used today is due to their cost advantage. Especially when used on rear wheels, they continue to be preferred by automobile manufacturers as they provide sufficient performance for daily driving needs.
Conclusion
Brake systems are vital for vehicle safety.
Hydraulic brakes are commonly used in passenger cars, air brakes are preferred in heavy-duty vehicles, and electronic systems like ABS, ASR, and ESP are designed to enhance driving safety
