WHAT ARE WET BRAKES AND ARE THEY MORE EFFECTIVE
From a physics perspective, brakes on automobiles are built to convert kinetic energy (your moving vehicle) into heat energy (friction). In a car for example, the car then stops because of the energy conversion.
When it comes to heavy machinery, power is needed to effectively keep it from moving. You cannot just use any product because there are times when heavy vehicles will meet extreme weather and conditions.
Therefore, you need to research on what kind of tool to use to get that extra punch in the vehicle’s stopping power.
There are two main types of heavy machinery brakes that you can choose from here: wet and dry brakes. To determine which one will truly deliver in the most intense braking situations, you should know the difference between the two.
What Exactly Are Wet Brakes?
Wet brake system is less commonly uses than dry brakes. The dry type is less expensive and is much simpler when it needs replacement.
Dry ones are mostly on cars, trailers, and trucks with their discs and drums uncovered. On the other hand, most people are not aware of the wet variety, but it offers more advantages.
A wet brake is also called oil cooled disc brakes because there is oil applied to the system to maintain its low temperature. When there is a need to step on the brakes even during extreme conditions, you can rely on this type of brake.
This type of brake is mounted internally right in the differential of the vehicle. It is placed there so that water will not affect the brake.
How DO Wet Brakes Work
A dry brake uses a single drum system, which means that they will start heating up when they are put under pressure, causing undue strain to the whole brake system.
Unfortunately, this can contribute to accidents and even the failure to use the brake at the right moment.
You will need regular maintenance and adjustment if you are using a dry brake system so that you do not have to worry about your safety.
Here is a better solution though: use oil cooled disc brakes instead. A wet brake has multiple discs, which it uses so that the stopping power is evident whenever you step on the brakes.
Wet Brakes vs. Dry Brakes
For most users, a dry brake system is more applicable to their vehicle because it is not as costly as a wet brake.
Additionally, you can replace this type of brake with ease, which is why some people can perform the adjustment on their own.
However, the advantages of a dry brake system over a wet one stop there.
Even though a dry brake is much easier to replace and you can quickly complete the task without the help of a mechanic, it requires more maintenance services than a wet brake.
In truth, it is not less expensive if you will consider your expenses on its upkeep.
Although you should not replace and fix a wet brake by yourself, it will not require too much work on your part.
In fact, this type of brake can withstand different harsh conditions. Maintenance is also a breeze since you do not have to keep changing and fine-tuning it for optimal performance.
Since a wet brake system is in the differential, you can stop the vehicle even when you are driving through water.
The brake will work effortlessly even on wet roads. This can give you a peace of mind when it comes to continual safety and the overall performance of the brakes.
Downtime is much less than a dry brake as well, making wet brakes the wiser choice.
You want a reliable brake system that can help you save money, especially if you use heavy duty vehicles off the road and this is what a wet brake system can offer.