1. Primary Braking System:
- The primary braking system is responsible for providing the primary braking force and is directly controlled by the driver through the brake pedal. It consists of the following components:
- Brake Pedal: This is what the driver presses to engage the brakes.
- Master Cylinder: It converts the mechanical force applied to the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure.
- Brake Lines: These are pipes or hoses that carry the hydraulic fluid from the master cylinder to the wheels.
- Brake Calipers: These are located at each wheel and contain pistons that use hydraulic pressure to squeeze the brake pads against the brake rotors.
- Brake Rotors: These are metal discs connected to the wheels. The brake pads rub against these rotors to create friction and slow down or stop the vehicle.
2. Secondary Braking System:
- The secondary braking system is also known as the parking brake or emergency brake. It serves as a backup to the primary braking system and is usually operated by a lever or pedal. Its main components include:
- Parking Brake Lever: This is used to engage or release the parking brake.
- Parking Brake Cable or Mechanism: It transmits the force from the lever to the rear wheels.
- Rear Brake Shoes or Pads: These press against the inner surface of the rear brake drums to slow down or hold the vehicle in place.
While most modern vehicles have two independent braking systems, some heavy-duty vehicles may have additional braking systems for increased redundancy and safety.