Type of brakes - Disk brakes Video

Disk brakes consist of a cast iron or ceramic  disc bolted to the wheel hub and a stationary housing called a calliper. The calliper is connected to some stationary part of the vehicle and it cast in two parts, each part containing a piston. In between each piston and the disc there is a friction pad held in position by retaining pins, springs plates etc. There are arrangements in the calliper for the fluid to enter or leave each housing. There passages are also connected to another one for bleeding. Each cylinder contains a rubber sealing ring between the cylinder and the piston.

When the brakes are applied, the hydraulically activated piston moves the friction pads into contact with the disc, applying equal and opposite forces on the later. On releasing the brakes, the rubber sealing rings act as return springs and retract the pistons and the friction pads away from the disc.

Advantages of disk brakes Disadvantages of disk brakes Disc brakes are more efficient, provide better stopping power, Dissipate heat easier and work better in wet conditions, Disk brakes are less complex. Disk brakes are self-cleaning Disk brakes are easy to inspect and to maintain   A disc brake is much more prone to noise so timely service required. The rotors wrap easier than the drum brake system. Disc brakes are not self-energizing thus need higher clamping forces, which requires a power booster. Expensive as compared to a drum brake.