Understanding Diesel Hydraulic Brakes
Diesel hydraulic brakes are mainly used as safety components for heavy trucks.
Diesel hydraulic brakes are mainly used as safety components for heavy trucks. Therefore, they should always be in tip-top operational condition to reduce the risks of accidents. Understanding how the braking system operates is important to properly maintaining it.
Let's explore how a diesel hydraulic braking system works.
Understanding hydraulic brakes
Hydraulic brakes are systems that use fluid to transmit friction force to moving wheels to bring them to a stop. These systems use the principle that fluid cannot be compressed. Therefore, a braking mechanism connects to a wheel-mounted braking unit through a fluid-filled hose.
The fluid amplifies and transforms the mechanical force applied by the driver on the vehicle's brake pedal into hydraulic pressure. In turn, the pressure creates friction on the brake discs or drums on the wheels, causing the vehicle to decelerate and come to a stop.
Components of a hydraulic braking system
Here are the parts that make up a hydraulic braking system:
Brake pedal and mechanical linkage
The brake pedal acts as the braking system's force input. When pressed, it initiates deceleration by transmitting the force to the wheels. The pedal is linked to a mechanical spring connecting it to the master cylinder.
Master cylinder
The master cylinder is the basic part of the hydraulic braking system. Its piston converts mechanical force from the brake pedal into hydraulic force by pressurizing the brake fluid.
Brake fluid reservoir
The brake fluid reservoir holds the hydraulic fluid, allowing it to move to the master cylinder as needed. It also helps maintain the correct fluid level and compensate for any leaks in the system.
Hydraulic lines
Hydraulic lines are flexible rubber pipes that serve as connections between parts of the braking system. Their small diameters enable the brake fluid to move from the master cylinder to the wheels at high pressure.
Brake calipers
Brake calipers are common in rear vehicle wheels, and brake discs are used. They have pistons that connect to the brake pads and create friction against the moving brake discs to reduce speed or stop a vehicle.
Drum cylinder
Drum cylinders are found on a vehicle's front wheels. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the drum cylinders force apart the brake shoes and press them against the brake drum to decelerate or stop the wheel.
Advantages of diesel hydraulic brakes
Most vehicles use diesel hydraulic brakes because of their clear edge over other braking systems. Here are some advantages:
Hydraulic brakes have few moving parts, meaning less wear and tear.
The brake fluid is suitable for all weather conditions.
Hydraulic energy generates a high braking force, allowing faster response times.
Hydraulic brake systems have simple designs, making them easier to maintain.
Keeping diesel hydraulic brakes functional
Diesel hydraulic braking systems disperse equal braking force to all wheels, ensuring the vehicle's stability and the safety of the people or goods transported. Nonetheless, these systems are prone to malfunctions and require routine checkups by a professional.
