Anti-lock brakes are systems that help a car’s brakes react to unexpected movement. They first became common on passenger cars in the mid-1980s. They work by sensing the speed of a vehicle’s wheels and pulsating a control valve that works on both the front and rear wheels. These systems were expensive to install and unreliable. However, after the development of electronic anti-lock brakes, most vehicles were equipped with them.
The ABS system has a central electronic control unit, four-wheel-speed sensors, and at least two hydraulic valves. ABS constantly monitors wheel rotation speed to predict the impending wheel lock. When the wheel rotation speed slows down, the central control unit reduces hydraulic pressure on the brake in the affected wheel. This reduces the braking force on the wheel and makes it turn faster. When this happens, the ABS system will apply more force to the other wheels.
While the benefits of anti-lock brakes may be countless, the disadvantages cannot be dismissed. First of all, there is a need for drivers to be aware of road conditions. A car with ABS may increase its stopping distance if the road is loose or slippery. Drivers should consider this when planning a stop or an emergency. However, they must also know how to use anti-lock brakes properly. While they may be expensive, the benefits to driving a car with ABS are priceless.
During braking, the brakes use hydraulic pressure to press pads against the rotor. This friction causes the wheel to stop moving. The hydraulic pressure is controlled by special valves. As a result, the brakes can be disengaged. While anti-lock brakes can reduce the speed of a vehicle, they do not prevent it from stopping. They are more effective than mechanical brakes. They are more convenient to install on a car than manually-operated ones.
