FOR YOUR VEHICLE
A Complete Guide to Mainstream Brake Booster Systems: How to Cho
Tags: vacuum booster, disc brake systems, drum brake pros and cons, truck air brakes, brake system selection
Passenger Cars: Vacuum Booster and Disc Brake Combination
Modern passenger cars commonly use the "vacuum booster + disc brake" braking solution. Disc brake systems generate friction through the clamping of brake discs and calipers, offering advantages of rapid heat dissipation and responsive performance. The core component, the vacuum booster, connects to the engine and utilizes the vacuum negative pressure generated during engine operation. When the driver presses the brake, it introduces atmospheric pressure, amplifying the braking force through Pascal's principle, allowing effective braking with minimal pedal effort. Currently, mainstream passenger cars can generally achieve 100km/h-0 braking distances within 40 meters, fully meeting daily usage requirements.
Heavy Vehicles: Air Brake Systems and Drum Brake Configuration
For heavy trucks with total weights reaching tens of tons, more powerful braking systems are necessary. These vehicles widely use air brake systems, where compressors store compressed air in air reservoirs. During braking, compressed air pushes the brake chambers to achieve braking. The "hissing" sounds during system operation are normal exhaust noises, not malfunctions. Meanwhile, heavy vehicles predominantly choose drum brakes over disc brakes because drum brakes' larger friction area and "wedge effect" can generate stronger braking force, better suiting the braking needs of heavy vehicles.
Disc Brakes vs. Drum Brakes: Advantages and Disadvantages Comparison
There are three main reasons for the popularity of disc brakes in passenger cars: First, the open structure offers excellent heat dissipation, effectively preventing brake fade from continuous braking. Second, maintenance is convenient, with easier brake pad replacement. Third, the aesthetic design is more appealing, and brightly colored brake calipers have become a visual symbol of a vehicle's sporty feel.
In contrast, although drum brakes provide stronger braking force and lower cost, their enclosed structure leads to poor heat dissipation. Prolonged continuous use can easily cause brake fade, affecting braking performance. This is the key consideration behind passenger cars choosing disc brakes while heavy vehicles stick with drum brakes.
Purchasing Advice and Safety Reminders
When selecting a brake system, passenger car users should prioritize models equipped with vacuum boosters and four-wheel disc brakes, ensuring sufficient braking performance and stability. For users who frequently drive on mountain roads, ventilated disc brakes with better heat dissipation are recommended.
Special attention should be paid to maintaining a safe distance when encountering heavy vehicles on the road. Due to the risk of brake fade in drum brakes and the longer braking distances of large vehicles, keeping a safe distance is crucial. Additionally, since heavy vehicles have large blind spots, maintaining a safe distance provides drivers with better reaction time.
Key Maintenance Points
Regardless of the brake system chosen, regular inspections are essential. For passenger cars, check brake pad wear and the sealing of vacuum booster lines. For heavy vehicles, regularly drain moisture from air reservoirs and inspect air lines for leaks. Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the brake system remains in optimal working condition.