Composition and Location
Based on structural design, brakes can be categorized into drum brakes and disc brakes. Drum brakes primarily consist of components such as the brake drum, brake shoes, and friction linings, while disc brakes mainly comprise the brake disc, brake caliper, and friction pads. These components are typically mounted on the wheels and rotate with them.
Working Principle
Drum Brakes: When the driver depresses the brake pedal, the piston inside the wheel cylinder pushes the brake shoes outward. This causes them to pivot around the pivot pins and press tightly against the inner surface of the brake drum. The stationary brake shoes generate a frictional torque against the rotating brake drum, thereby producing braking force. When the brake pedal is released, return springs push the brake shoes back to their initial position, releasing the braking force.
Disc Brakes: When the driver presses the brake pedal, the piston in the wheel cylinder pushes the brake pads within the caliper to clamp onto the rotating brake disc. Friction between the pads and disc generates a braking torque, slowing or stopping the vehicle. When the brake pedal is released, return springs push the pads back to their initial position, releasing the braking force.
