The automotive brake system works through the collaboration of multiple key components. Its core principle is to convert the vehicle's kinetic energy into heat energy through friction, thereby achieving deceleration or stopping.
Brake Pedal
The starting point for the driver to apply braking force. It amplifies foot force through the lever principle and drives the vacuum booster or electronic assist unit.
Vacuum Booster (or Electronic Booster)
Uses the vacuum generated by the engine intake manifold (or an electric motor) to amplify braking force, making it easier to press the brake. If the booster fails, greater foot force is required to brake.
Brake Master Cylinder
Converts mechanical force into hydraulic pressure. Internal pistons compress brake fluid, which, according to Pascal's law, evenly transfers pressure to the wheel cylinders at all four wheels.
Brake Wheel Cylinders (Calipers or Wheel Cylinders)
Disc Brakes (Calipers): Hydraulic pressure pushes the pistons to clamp the brake disc, generating frictional braking force.
Drum Brakes (Wheel Cylinders): Hydraulic pressure pushes the brake shoes outward, pressing against the drum's inner wall to achieve braking.
Brake Pads and Brake Discs (or Brake Drums)
Brake pads coated with friction material clamp the rotating brake disc to produce friction.
Brake discs are fixed to the wheel hub and rotate with the wheels; brake drums are rotating components whose inner walls are rubbed by the brake shoes.
Brake Fluid
The "blood" that transmits hydraulic pressure. It must be resistant to high temperatures and vapor lock. Moisture or aging can lead to delayed braking or even failure.
Connecting Lines (Metal Pipes + Rubber Hoses)
Metal pipes ensure no high-pressure leakage, while rubber hoses accommodate wheel movement, ensuring reliable hydraulic transmission.
