Friction Brakes
Braking systems are tricky to deal with. It is unlike other components that can be visually inspected to identify potential problems. It doesn't take an expert to know that replacement springs for bus are needed if the bus is riding low. Certain amount of information is needed in order to carry out proper brake maintenance. Knowing how braking system works can help in determining if certain components like brake springs and pads need replacement.
The friction brake is the most commonly-used braking system. These brakes come in several forms. The mechanical brake is the most simple form of friction brake. Back when wagons were still the primary mode of transportation, a lever was used to press a curved block of wood against the rim of the rotating wagon wheel. This generation friction that slowed or stopped the wagon.
The band brake is another and improved form of band brake. In this braking system, a flexible band or rope encloses the wheel or drum. The tightening of the band generates friction that slows down or stops the wheel from turning.
The majority of band brakes are on the outer part of the drums. Some are installed to expand and make contact on the inner surface of the drum. This keeps the bands protected from dirt. The is the basis for the modern disc brakes and shoe brakes that are used in today's vehicles.
The shoe brake makes use of two curved blocks called shoes that fit inside a drum attached to the wheel. Activating the brake means pushing the shoes against the drum to produce friction which stops the wheel from moving. With disk brakes, the drum is replaced by one or more disks. The braking friction is generated by friction pads or friction disks, which grasp the wheel's disk.
