Braking systems

Question 1

What is the ABS braking system?

Answer 1

Anti-lock braking system. ABS operates by preventing the wheels from locking up during braking, thereby maintaining tractive contact with the road surface.

ABS is an automated system that uses the principles of threshold braking and cadence braking (rapid pulsing of the hydraulics), techniques which were once practised by skilful drivers before ABSs were widespread.

Question 2

What is a braking system? and name four different types

Answer 2

In an automobile vehicle, a braking system is an arrangement of various linkages and components (brake lines or mechanical linkages, brake drum or brake disc , master cylinder or fulcrums etc) that are arranged in such a fashion that it converts the vehicle’s kinetic energy into the heat energy which in turn stops.

• drum brake
• disc brake
• rengenerative braking
• engine braking

Question 3

What is a drum brake?

Answer 3

A drum brake is a brake that uses friction caused by a set of shoes or pads that press outward against a rotating cylinder-shaped part called a brake drum.

The term drum brake usually means a brake in which shoes press on the inner surface of the drum.

Question 4

Describe a disc brake?

Answer 4

A disc brake is a type of brake that uses calipers to squeeze pairs of pads against a disc or “rotor” to create friction.

This action slows the rotation of a shaft, such as a vehicle axle, either to reduce its rotational speed or to hold it stationary.

Most commonly used brake in mpotor vehicles today

Question 5

Social Impacts

Answer 5

Pros

• Faster and More Powerful Car (improved brakes)
• Time saver and efficient
• Reduce facilities (quicker stopping times)

Cons

• Faster cars lead to more serious car crashes
• some materials bad for health and environment (asbesos)