Types of Aircraft Brakes
As with any motorized vehicle, wheel brakes are extremely important for the safety and control of an aircraft. When landing, they can help slow down the aircraft to safer speeds for stopping, as well as help pilots navigate the aerodrome with steering, taxiing, parking, and more. Most aircraft braking systems are operated through hydraulic pressure, and pilots can utilize the system with pedals, though some may feature separate hand levers as well. Sometimes, due to the size and weight of aircraft, powered braking systems can aid a pilot in slowing down the aircraft when the pedals are not enough. There are various types of aircraft brakes to help with slowing down and controlling the vehicle, which we will discuss below.
Disk brakes are one of the very widely used form of aircraft braking, and they utilize discs and calipers to clasp the the braking pad in order to provide stopping power. Through compression of the braking pad, a great amount of friction is created that is applied evenly to both sides. Disk brakes most often utilize hydraulic fluids to operate. Types of disc brakes include single disc, floating disc, fixed disc, multiple disc, and more depending on the size of the aircraft.
Another type of braking is through a drum type. These are not used very much on modern aircraft, and are mostly seen on more exotic or older models. Drum types brake may utilize either hydraulic or pneumatic pressure systems for their stopping power, and every so often may even utilize a cable system. Drum brakes feature a round drum and shoes that press against the drum to help slow the aircraft down. Springs are also present that help control the shoes when applying brake pressure.
Through power assistance, many heavier or larger aircraft can be stopped with more ease. As the pilot’s braking system can sometimes not provide enough needed power to stop the aircraft with higher speeds, these powered systems help supply much more pressure. Powered braking systems very often use hydraulic pressure that is applied to the wheel and caliper.
At ASAP Aviation Stock, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find aircraft brakes you need, new or obsolete. As a premier supplier of parts for the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries, we're always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7x365. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@asapaviationstock.com or call us at +1-763-401-8616.
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