Heavy Equipment Brake Systems: Why Regular Inspections are Crucial
Heavy Equipment Brake Systems: Why Regular Inspections are Crucial
Reading time: 5 min
When it comes to the safe operation of heavy construction equipment, such as excavators, loaders and dozers, brakes are a critical aspect of ensuring operator safety. Brakes serve the critical function of bringing heavy equipment to a stop, preventing costly and dangerous accidents.
Neglecting brake maintenance can lead to catastrophic accidents, endangering not just operators—but everyone in the vicinity. Therefore, proper brake system maintenance isn’t just about improving machine performance, it’s about safeguarding lives and property.
In this guide, we’ll go over the critical role of regular brake system checks, explaining why they’re not just part of routine maintenance, but a cornerstone of operational safety.
Heavy Equipment Brake System Components
Heavy equipment brake systems come in a variety of designs, each consisting of an array of smaller components. Here are some of the most standard components found in heavy equipment brake systems.
Brake Pads
Brake pads are flat, steel backing plates with friction material bound to the surface that faces the brake rotor. They are pressed against the rotors by the brake calipers to slow or stop the heavy equipment.
Maintenance Needs: Regular inspection for wear and tear is essential. Brake pads need to be replaced when the friction material wears down to a minimum thickness.
Brake Calipers
Calipers are components that house the brake pads and pistons. They can be sliding or fixed.
Their primary function is to squeeze the brake pads against the rotors to create friction and stop the machine.
Maintenance Needs: Brake calipers need to be inspected for leaks, corrosion and proper movement. Caliper pistons and sliding pins (if applicable) need to be checked and lubricated.
Rotors
Rotors are large metal discs attached to the wheel hub. They provide a surface for the brake pads to create friction, slowing down or stopping the machine.
Maintenance Needs: Inspection for warping, cracks and wear. Rotors should be replaced if they are below the minimum thickness or cannot be resurfaced.
Drums
Drum brakes consist of a drum and shoes. The drum is a cylindrical casing that rotates with the wheel. When the brake is applied, the shoes are pushed outwards to rub against the inside of the drum, causing the heavy equipment to slow down
Maintenance Needs: Regular inspection for wear, cracks and damage. Drums might need resurfacing or replacement depending on their condition.
Hydraulic Components
Most heavy equipment brake systems use hydraulic power. Hydraulic components critical to the operation of the brake system include the master cylinder, brake lines and brake fluid. These components work together to transfer the force from the brake pedal to the brake pads and shoes.
Maintenance Needs: It’s important to regularly check for leaks and low fluid levels. Hydraulic fluid should be replaced at intervals specified by the manufacturer. The entire system needs to be inspected for any signs of wear or damage.
Types Of Heavy Equipment Brakes
Braking systems used in heavy equipment come in a variety of designs. Each design has its strengths and weaknesses, and certain designs are more common than others. Here are the most common braking system designs used in heavy equipment today.
Disc Brakes
Disc Brakes are a common type of brake found in many forms of heavy equipment. They consist of a brake disc, or rotor, attached to the wheel or axle. When the brake is applied, a caliper squeezes the brake pads against the disc, creating friction that slows down the wheel.
Disc brakes are known for their effective heat dissipation, making them suitable for situations where frequent braking is required. Their simpler design also allows for easier inspection and maintenance, which is vital in heavy-duty applications.
Drum Brakes
Drum Brakes, on the other hand, work on a different principle. They consist of a cylindrical brake drum attached to the inside of the wheel. When the brake is engaged, brake shoes press against the inside of the drum, generating friction to slow down the equipment.
While drum brakes are often more complex and harder to cool than disc brakes, they are still used in heavy equipment due to their effective braking force and their ability to function well in dirty or muddy conditions.
Wet Brakes
Wet Brakes are another type used in heavy machinery, especially in environments where dust and debris are prevalent. These brakes are enclosed and operate in an oil bath or wet environment, which helps in cooling and reduces brake wear.
These brakes are particularly advantageous in agricultural and construction equipment, as they are less prone to contamination and are generally more durable.
Inspecting Heavy Equipment Brake Systems
Frequent inspections of your machine’s braking system will assist you in identifying and addressing problems before they become critical. Some common signs that your machine’s brake system needs attention include squealing or grinding noises, vibration when engaging the brakes or a failure of the brakes to engage.
Brake system inspections start with visually inspecting the critical components of your machine’s brake system.
Here are some things to look out for during your visual inspection:
- Excessively thin or worn-out brake pads
- Uneven wear to the brake pads, which may indicate faulty calipers
- Corrosion or rust around the slack adjusters and camshafts
- Leaks, cracks or kinks in hoses
- Warping or other signs of wear to the rotors
For a more in-depth assessment of your machine’s brake system, you may consider ordering a brake diagnosis. During a brake diagnosis, a detailed inspection and testing of the machine’s braking system are conducted to ensure all components are functioning correctly.
Final Thoughts
Regular brake system inspections are critical for ensuring the safety of operators and jobsite personnel. Keeping your machine’s brake system well-maintained isn’t only good for the safety of your team, but it will help you cut down on maintenance costs, as well.
If you’re looking for OEM or aftermarket parts for your machine, including parts that impact the brake system, look no further than the EquipmentShare Shop. Our online catalog makes it easy to search for and order replacement parts for your heavy equipment. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Reach out to our parts experts and get personalized assistance.
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