A car’s brakes are one of its most important safety features, and brake fluid is a vital part of the braking system. When the pedal is pressed, the fluid is forced through a network of hoses and pipes to the brakes, where it applies pressure to the pads or shoes. This pressure causes the brakes to grip the wheels and slow or stop the car. Brake fluid is stored in a reservoir under the hood of the car, and it is important to use the correct type of fluid for your car to avoid damaging the braking system. Here’s what you should know about brake fluid.
Brake Fluid History
The first cars didn’t have brakes at all. However, as cars became more common, the need for a more reliable braking system became apparent. The first step in this process was the invention of the hand brake in 1872. By applying pressure to a lever, drivers could engage a ratcheting mechanism that would apply friction to the wheels, slowing the car down. In 1898 a more effective solution was found. In that year, automobile pioneer George Westinghouse patented a device that used compressed air to apply pressure to the brakes. This system was much more reliable than the hand brake, and it quickly became the standard for braking systems in cars.
Over the next few decades, minor improvements were made to Westinghouse’s design, but it remained essentially unchanged until the mid-20th century. In 1953, researcher Russell Dorsey developed a new type of brake fluid that used diethylene glycol as its base. This new fluid had superior stopping power and reduced wear on brake components.
Understanding Your Car’s Brake Fluid
The brake fluid in your car today is a hydraulic fluid that is used to transfer force into pressure, and to amplify braking force. When you press the brake pedal, the brake fluid transfers the force from your foot to the brakes, which then applies pressure to the wheels and stop the car. In addition to transferring force, brake fluid also helps to protect your brakes from corrosion and wear. Over time, brake fluid can become contaminated with moisture, dirt, and other debris. This can cause the fluid to degrade and become less effective at transferring force. As a result, it’s important to check your brake fluid regularly and top it off if necessary.
Brake fluid has changed significantly throughout history. Today we have a useful hydraulic fluid that helps to transfer force from the brake pedal to the brakes themselves. By keeping your brake fluid clean and full, you can help ensure that your brakes will perform properly when you need them most.