Electric Vs. Hydraulic Brakes

Electric brakes use electronic signals to keep a check on torque, speed and lockup.

Electric brakes and hydraulic brakes are types of braking systems used in different models of automobiles. While both types of braking systems serve a similar purpose of stopping motion, their mechanisms differs.

Definition

Electric brakes are mechanical braking systems that slow down or stop a moving vehicle while hydraulic brakes use a multiple-piston system in which a breaking pedal moves a piston in the master cylinder that applies force to slow down or stop the automobile.

Mechanism

Electric brakes use electrically operated parts in an automobile. Hydraulic brakes use toothed components to slow down shafts in moving vehicles. They also use a permanent magnet for braking. Hydraulic brakes use hydraulic brake fluid but electric brakes rely on strong calipers to provide friction.

Target Vehicles

Electric brakes are mostly found in caravans and trailers. Cars, most models of trucks and motorbikes have hydraulic brakes.

Other Specifications

Electric brakes use electronic signals to keep a check on torque, speed and lockup. On the other hand, hydraulic brakes are able to disengage load during a directional reversal.

References

• Integrated Publishing: Hydraulic Brakes
• Global Spec: About Electric Brakes
• Car Bibles: The Brake Bible