Semi truck brakes are an essential part of any commercial truck, as they ensure the safety of both the driver and those around them. They are made up of several components, all of which must be in good working order for the brakes to work properly. The most important parts of semi truck brakes are the calipers, rotors, shoes, drums, and brake pads.
Calipers: The calipers are what hold the brake pads in place on the rotors or drums and allow them to move freely when the brake pedal is pressed. The caliper is made up of a cylinder with pistons that press the brake pads against the rotors or drums when actuated by hydraulic pressure from the brake lines.
Rotors: Rotors are metal discs that sit behind each wheel on a semi truck and provide a surface for the brake pads to press against when braking. They are typically made out of cast iron or steel and are designed to withstand high temperatures generated during braking.
Shoes: Shoes are used in trucks that have drum brakes instead of disc brakes. They act like a pad that presses against the inside of a drum when braking is applied and provide friction necessary for stopping power. Shoes are typically made out of rubber or other synthetic materials for durability.
Drums: Drums provide a surface for shoes to press against on trucks with drum brakes instead of disc brakes. Just like rotors, they need to be able to withstand high temperatures generated during braking and therefore are usually made out of cast iron or steel.
Brake Pads: Brake pads are what actually provide friction between the rotors or drums and create resistance necessary for stopping power. They can be made out of ceramic, metallic, organic, or semi-metallic materials depending on their intended use and should be replaced at regular intervals as they wear down over time.
Conclusion:
Semi truck brakes are an essential part of any commercial vehicle as they help ensure safety while driving. They consist of various components including calipers, rotors, shoes, drums, and brake pads which must all be in good working order for them to operate properly. Brake pads come in various materials such as ceramic, metallic, organic or semi-metallic depending on their use and should regularly be replaced as they wear down over time.
