Disc Brake

how things work · vehicles · friction

Squeezing Creates Stopping. The brake pads press hard against a flat metal disc called a rotor, and friction between them converts the energy of motion into heat that slows the vehicle down.

Heat Gets Hot. All that friction creates a lot of heat, so disc brakes have to be designed to cool down quickly so they don't overheat and stop working properly.

Most Cars Use Them. You'll find disc brakes on nearly every car on the road today because they work really well, even though they cost more to make than the older drum brake style.

Fancy Bikes Too. Some high-end bicycles also have disc brakes instead of rim brakes, giving riders better stopping power, especially in wet or muddy conditions.