Drum brakes
Drum brakes are the older and more traditional type of braking system. They consist of a metal drum that is attached to the wheel, and brake shoes that are mounted inside the drum. When the brake pedal is depressed, the brake shoes are forced against the inside of the drum, creating friction that slows or stops the wheel.
Advantages:
- Less expensive to manufacture than disc brakes
- Simpler design, easier to maintain
- Provide more even wear on brake pads
- Less sensitive to water and dirt
- Better suited for vehicles that do not require frequent or heavy braking
Disadvantages:
- Less effective than disc brakes at dissipating heat, can lead to brake fade
- More likely to lock up under heavy braking, can cause loss of control
- Generate more heat, can damage the brake fluid and seals
- Require more frequent brake pad replacements
- Produce more brake dust
Disc brakes
Disc brakes are a more modern type of braking system. They consist of a metal disc that is attached to the wheel and a caliper that is mounted over the disc. When the brake pedal is depressed, the caliper squeezes the brake pads against both sides of the disc, creating friction that slows or stops the wheel.
Advantages:
- More effective than drum brakes at dissipating heat, less prone to brake fade
- Less likely to lock up under heavy braking, providing better control
- Generate less heat, less likely to damage brake fluid or seals
- Require less frequent brake pad replacements
- Produce less brake dust
Disadvantages:
- More expensive to manufacture than drum brakes
- More complex design, more difficult to maintain
- Can be more susceptible to water and dirt
- Less suited for older or lighter vehicles
In summary, disc brakes are generally more effective and provide better performance than drum brakes, but they are also more expensive and complex. Drum brakes are a more cost-effective and simpler option, but they are less effective and can be prone to problems under heavy or frequent use.
