26
2025
-
11
What are the advantages and disadvantages of air brakes and hydraulic brakes, and how should they be matched when choosing a vehicle?
The current braking performance of vehicles has also become an important factor for truck drivers when choosing a vehicle. In comparisons of small trucks in the 70,000-80,000 yuan range, some drivers have indicated that they prefer air brake models over hydraulic brake models.
Today, let's talk about this: what are the structural differences between hydraulic brakes and air brakes? What are the advantages of each? Which types of vehicles are they suitable for, and what are the differences in maintenance for each?
First, let's understand the structural differences between hydraulic brakes and air brakes. From the book "Automobile Brake Systems," we can learn that hydraulic brakes have a relatively simple structure, consisting of a master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake fluid reservoir, and connecting lines, which also allows for a smaller installation space, making it suitable for small vehicles.
In contrast, the air brake system is relatively complex, consisting of components such as the brake master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, air pump, air reservoir, high-pressure controller, and relay valves. It requires significant installation space and is suitable for medium to large vehicles, although in recent years many light trucks have also been equipped with air brakes.
At the same time, there are also obvious differences in the braking medium. This can be partially inferred from their names. Hydraulic brakes use brake fluid as the braking medium, which works by using the fluid to push the brake pads during operation. Pneumatic brakes, on the other hand, use free air, which is pressurized to push the brake pads into action. If the air pressure is insufficient, there will be no braking force.
In addition, there are also some differences in the parking brakes between the two. According to Baidu Encyclopedia, the parking brake in a hydraulic brake system is applied to the wheels by pulling up the parking brake lever. In contrast, the conventional air brake parking brake is a central disc brake, with the braking torque acting directly on the driveshaft, which means it can only be used when the vehicle is stationary.
Moreover, under the air brake system, there is a widely used form of parking brake—the spring brake. The spring brake is fundamentally different from the ordinary air brake parking systems. In normal conditions, the spring brake system is in a constant braking state due to the powerful spring. When the vehicle needs to move, compressed air is used to push the spring open, which releases the brake.
This is also why vehicles equipped with air-supply cut-off brakes must start the vehicle's air system before releasing the parking brake. Due to its unique design, air-supply cut-off brakes offer much greater braking force and safety compared to conventional air brake parking brakes. Thanks to the current state of domestic freight transportation over the years, the use of air-supply cut-off brakes has become quite widespread.
Due to its simple structure and small installation space, hydraulic brakes are mostly found on small-tonnage vehicles (such as passenger cars and light trucks). Their notable features are longer braking distances and slower response, but they are easy to maintain and inexpensive.
Air brakes are mostly installed on medium and heavy trucks as well as heavy buses, but in recent years they have also been frequently seen on light and small trucks. They are characterized by quick braking response and short stopping distance, but have a complex structure, higher maintenance and purchase costs, and a lower likelihood of long-term braking performance degradation. Moreover, they are mostly used in conjunction with dual-circuit air brakes.
So when buying a car, which type of braking system should you choose? First of all, medium and heavy trucks come standard with air brakes and emergency air brakes, so there's no need to think too much about that. Most drivers tend to hesitate when it comes to mini trucks and light trucks. You can decide based on your daily operating scenarios.
For example, truck driver Master Guo mainly operates around the village, transporting used furniture. The load is not heavy, and he mostly drives on national roads at moderate speeds, for which hydraulic brakes are sufficient. Of course, if you often drive on highways, intercity roads, or complex routes (many slopes and sharp turns) with heavier loads, it is recommended to choose a vehicle with air brakes, as this will significantly improve braking safety.
Regardless of the type of braking system a vehicle uses, careful maintenance is required in daily use. For vehicles with hydraulic brakes, regular maintenance includes replacing brake fluid, brake discs, and brake pads. For vehicles with air brakes, it is necessary to periodically replace components such as brake drums and brake shoes, while also paying attention to whether there is water ingress or air leakage in the air brake lines.
In addition, Foton Auman and Oumake technical engineers also recommend that truck drivers check the vehicle's braking system on a flat road after driving through water, pressing the brakes several times to see if there is any loss of braking power. For small and micro trucks equipped with hydraulic brakes, it is also advised not to overload the vehicle, as this could lead to situations where the brakes fail or the brake pedal might be pressed too hard.
Focus on the research and development of automotive brake systems and pneumatic brake valves to promote the development of the auto parts industry!
Contact Information
Telephone:86-575-87438928
Mobile:8613252110178
QQ：1185450863@qq.com
Address: No. 461, Advanced Village, Fengqiao Town, Zhuji, Zhejiang Province
Online message
Submit your information and we will contact you as soon as possible.