What is hydraulic braking?

Hydraulic braking refers to a system that utilizes fluid, typically brake fluid, to transmit force from the brake pedal to the brake mechanisms at each wheel. This method leverages Pascal's principle, which states that a change in pressure applied to an enclosed fluid is transmitted equally in all directions. When the driver presses the brake pedal, it activates a master cylinder that generates hydraulic pressure. This pressure travels through brake lines to the brake calipers or drums at the wheels, engaging the brake pads or shoes to slow down or stop the vehicle.

This fluid-based system offers several advantages, such as more consistent braking performance and greater force multiplication compared to other methods, creating an effective and powerful braking response with less effort from the driver. The integration of hydraulic fluid allows for smoother operation and helps absorb some of the heat generated during braking, contributing to the overall safety and efficiency of the braking system.