ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF FRICTION LESS BRAKES

ADVANTAGES

1. Problems of drum distortion at widely varying temperatures. Which is common for friction-brake drums to exceed 500 °C surface temperatures when subject to heavy braking demands, and at temperatures of this order, a reduction in the coefficient of friction (‘brake fade’) suddenly occurs.

2. This is reduced significantly in electromagnetic disk brake systems.

3. Potential hazard of tire deterioration and bursts due to friction is eliminated.

4. There is no need to change brake oils regularly.

5. There is no oil leakage.

6. The practical location of the retarder within the vehicle prevents the direct impingement of air on the retarder caused by the motion of the vehicle.

7. The retarders help to extend the life span of the regular brakes and keep the regular brakes cool for emergency situation.

8. The electromagnetic brakes have excellent heat dissipation efficiency owing to the high temperature of the surface of the disc which is being cooled.

9. Due to its special mounting location and heat dissipation mechanism, electromagnetic brakes have better thermal dynamic performance than regular friction brakes.

10. Burnishing is the wearing or mating of opposing surfaces .This is reduced significantly here.

11. Electromagnetic brake systems will reduce maintenance cost .

12. The problem of brake fluid vaporization and freezing is eliminated.

DISADVANTAGES 

1. Dependence on battery power to energize the brake system drains down the battery much faster.

2. Due to residual magnetism present in electromagnets, the brake shoe takes time to come back to its original position.