The Advantages of Hydraulic Braking Systems Explained for Those Who Want to Become an Auto Mechanic
Today, almost all new vehicles are equipped with hydraulic brakes, moving away from the mechanical brakes of the past. There are many reasons for this transition, as hydraulic brakes have many advantages—both in terms of longevity and effectiveness. Originally, a vehicle’s braking system operated through a series of mechanical linkages to apply brake shoes on a vehicle’s wheels. With advancements in technology, hydraulic brakes have become standard throughout the auto industry.
If you’re considering a career as an auto mechanic, read on to discover how a hydraulic braking system works and the advantages this system offers.
How a Hydraulic Braking System Works for Those Looking to Become an Auto Mechanic
Hydraulic brakes use fluid to slow the motion of a vehicle. If you want to become an auto mechanic, it will be important to understand how hydraulic braking systems work in order to properly assess and repair a vehicle’s brakes. In hydraulic brakes, a piston rod connects the brake pedal to the master cylinder piston, which converts pressure delivered from the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure.
The master cylinder contains brake fluid, and as the piston rod presses into this component, the pressure of the fluid increases. This pressure is distributed to the rest of the hydraulic system via hydraulic lines. With pressure, a vehicle’s wheel cylinder pistons are forced outward, pushing the brake shoes against the brake drums, slowing a vehicle down.
Hydraulic Braking Systems Are More Effective at Stopping a Vehicle in Motion
One of the most important benefits of hydraulic braking systems for those training in mechanic schools to know of is their ability to distribute uniform pressure to all wheels of a vehicle. Hydraulic brakes use hydrostatic pressure to apply force. Pascal’s law, a principle of fluid mechanics, dictates that when pressure is transmitted throughout a fluid, this pressure is applied equally in all directions. Thus, because hydraulic brakes rely on brake fluid to create the pressure distributed throughout the system, a hydraulic braking system will always apply equal force to a vehicle’s wheels. This uniform pressure makes hydraulic braking systems more effective at safely and quickly stopping a vehicle in motion.
Additionally, hydraulic brakes operate on the principle of hydraulic leverage. Hydraulic leverage allows hydraulic braking systems to generate a greater amount of force in relation to the effort applied by a driver in comparison to other braking systems. This principle means that hydraulic brakes are more equipped to effectively stop a fast-moving vehicle.
Hydraulic Brakes Are Long Lasting
In addition to being more effective when it comes to stopping a vehicle quickly, hydraulic braking systems also last longer than other systems. Within hydraulic brake systems, brake fluid acts as a lubricant, increasing the resistance of components to wear and tear over time. Additionally, hydraulic brake systems don’t contain joints, reducing the amount of components vulnerable to the effects of time. Lastly, because hydraulic brakes distribute heat more uniformly than mechanic brakes, the longevity of the system as a whole is improved.
Exploring automotive courses in Canada?
Launch your career with a program at ATC Cambridge today!
