How Do Brake Pads Stop Your Car?
You press the brake pedal in your car and, voilà, it comes to a smooth and safe halt. But, how does that happen? What’s going on behind the scenes? Sure, the brakes are the magician behind the magic, but it’s the brake pad who is the indispensable magician’s assistant. The experts at Tracy’s Tire Pros and Automotive in Wichita explore the science behind brake pads and how they work to bring your vehicle to a stop.
The role of the Brake Pad (or the magician’s assistant)
Brake pads are a fundamental part of the modern braking system in vehicles, whether they’re cars, trucks, or motorcycles. Their primary role is to generate the friction needed to slow down or stop the rotating wheels. This friction material is the part of the brake pad that comes into direct contact with the brake rotor (also known as the brake disc). It’s typically made of materials designed to provide high friction and wear resistance. The backplate is the structural support for this friction material. Typically made of steel, it holds the pad in place and provides a means of attaching the pad to the caliper.
… And the magic begins (or stops, as the case may be)
The operation of brake pads is a complex but well-engineered process. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure is generated in the braking system. This pressure is transmitted to the brake caliper, which is connected to the wheel’s rotor. The brake caliper contains a pair of pistons. These pistons are pushed outward by the hydraulic pressure, which, in turn, forces the brake pads against both sides of the brake rotor. As the brake pads make contact with the spinning rotor, friction is generated. This friction converts the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle into heat energy. The transformation of energy is what ultimately slows down or stops the vehicle. Brake pads are designed to withstand high temperatures generated during braking. The heat is then dissipated through the brake rotor, pad, and the surrounding air. This prevents overheating and brake fade, ensuring the brakes can work efficiently even during repeated stops.
What role does maintenance play in this magic system?
Over time, the friction material on the brake pads wears down. When this material becomes too thin, it’s your role to replace the brake pads to maintain braking performance. Regular maintenance and replacement of worn brake pads are essential to keep your brakes in optimal working condition, ensuring that you can trust your vehicle to stop when you need it most.
Tracy’s Tire Pros has three locations to make your car’s brake maintenance convenient and affordable: 525 E. 1st Street North, 3804 W. Maple St, or 11770 W. 21st Street N.
For more information on how your braking system works, check out How A Car Work’s blog How the Braking System Works.
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