Brake Disc, Brake System, Brake Drum
Brake Discs and Brake Drums: Structure, Differences, Advantages and Disadvantages
Oct
The function and differences between brake discs and brake drums are essential to understand before purchasing a car. Whether you're looking to replace the braking system or buying a new vehicle, it's crucial to know that the braking system is vital for any car.
Currently, there are two types of braking systems: disc brakes and drum brakes. In most markets, disc brakes are commonly used, but some vehicles still use both systems simultaneously, with disc brakes installed on the front and drum brakes on the rear. Let’s explore the differences between brake discs and brake drums.
- The main differences between brake discs and brake drums
- Advantages and Disadvantages of Disc Brakes
- Advantages and Disadvantages of Drum Brakes
The main differences between brake discs and brake drums
The two braking systems have a noticeable difference in appearance, but the braking principles are the same. The main distinction lies in their ability to dissipate heat. Heat energy is generated from the friction between the moving and stationary components in the braking system.
Generally speaking, brake discs have a much greater heat dissipation capability than brake drums. Therefore, even though both brake components serve the same braking function, disc brakes can deliver better performance and experience less fatigue.
On the other hand, drum brakes have lower heat dissipation capabilities, which means that under excessive braking conditions, they may lose braking effectiveness sooner than disc brakes. However, let's take a closer look at how each system operates so you can make a more informed decision.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Disc Brakes
The braking principle of disc brakes is quite simple. One or more pistons push the brake pads against the surface of the brake disc to stop the vehicle through friction. In simple terms, the brake caliper clamps the brake disc, causing the brake pads to make contact with the disc and create friction. Disc brakes are the most common and generally more effective, but they are also relatively more expensive than drum brakes.
Since the disc brake system is fully exposed to the outside and continuously contacts the air, it allows the heat generated from friction to dissipate quickly. This extends the fatigue life of the brake components and enables them to handle greater braking loads.
Advantages: quick cooling, progressive braking, good stability, easy installation and replacement of brake pads.
Disadvantages: higher cost, prone to deformation.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Drum Brakes
source: AUTODOC
The brake drum is typically installed at the rear of the vehicle. Brake discs are mounted on the front wheels because, during braking, the weight of the vehicle shifts forward, requiring stronger braking force on the front wheels. The greater the braking effect, the higher the friction and heat generated, which helps to prevent brake fatigue that can occur if brake drums are located on the front axle. The braking principle of the drum brake is slightly different; it operates by expanding a hydraulic piston, which pushes the brake shoes against the inner wall of the brake drum.
Based on what was mentioned above, both braking systems generate stopping power through friction to halt the vehicle's motion. However, in the case of brake drums, the heat generated from braking friction tends to be trapped within the components such as the brake shoes, springs, and pistons. This means that it takes longer for these components to dissipate the heat generated from the friction.
When brake drums lack effective cooling, they are prone to brake fade, and excessive heat that cannot be efficiently dissipated can lead to brake drum failure. Additionally, if the brake system remains in a high-temperature state, it will reduce braking performance, resulting in increased stopping distances and times.
Another disadvantage of brake drums is that the brake shoes can lose their adjustment over time, requiring regular inspection and recalibration to ensure that the rear wheels brake evenly with the front wheels. Of course, brake drums are generally cheaper than brake discs.
Advantages: Cost-effective, automatic self-adjustment, simple component manufacturing and assembly.
Disadvantages: Slow heat dissipation, requires more force on the brake pedal, more prone to fading, and a higher likelihood of wheel lock-up.
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Conclusion
Which is better, brake discs or drums? While many drawbacks of brake drums have been mentioned above, this does not mean they are poor components. They are still effective and provide strong braking power; however, they are more prone to brake fade and potential failure under excessive braking conditions.
For these reasons, brake discs are more popular and increasingly used, so we recommend using disc brakes on all four wheels. Although they are more expensive, considering driving safety, they are worth the investment.
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