Brake Ducts

FILTER
LIST
GRID

Brake Ducts and Ducting

A brake cooling system is a critical component for high-performance driving. As such, events involving high speeds and regular braking usually take a heavy toll on the braking system. Brake pads usually function effectively and efficiently when they operate within the temperature range determined by their manufacturers. When braking, component utilize friction to convert kinetic energy into heat energy. The brake pads clamp down on the rotors, also referred to as brake discs, and this slows down or stops a moving car. This process usually generates an intense amount of heat, especially if the car is heavy or is at a high speed. During races, the temperature regularly gets to over a 1000 degrees Celsius.

Brake Fade

Dissipating heat as soon as it is generated is of utmost importance. When temperatures exceed the operating range, the brake components gradually cease to absorb heat and this greatly hampers friction. In this situation, the driver has to press harder and harder in order to get a brake response. As the temperatures continue to exceed, the driver can experience total brake failure. This is called a brake fade. It can also occur when the brake fluid boils. Brake fluids are hydraulic, which means they are incompressible. They usually convert the force applied on the brake pedals into pressure, which is in turn applied on the brake pads creating friction with the rotors. During the braking process, the brake fluids also absorb a substantial amount of heat. When this heat accumulates, it may start boiling the fluids and this creates air pockets. Air is compressible, therefore, more force is required to overcome the limitations of air. The risk of brake parts damage is always high at extreme temperatures. The heat can melt or weaken the rotors eventually disfiguring them. When the discs are damaged, it’ll be only a short while before the pads are damaged too. If this happens regularly the long-term costs will be high for the drivers.

Manufacturers are coming up with innovative disc designs such as vented rotors in a bid to enhance heat dissipation. This may improve the driving experience for casual road users, but it just doesn’t cut it for racers and drifters. Cooling systems are required to minimise damage and brake fades. Convection has been identified as the most effective way of dissipating heat. This is the method of cooling which relies on the flow of air. Fast flowing cold air is passed over the heating parts thereby cooling them.

Brake Ducts and Ducting

Brake ducts are conduits used to direct air from an area of high pressure such as the front centre of the car to the braking system. As a race car driver, your braking parts are more prone to damage and require more cooling efficiency. Performance brake ducts offer the perfect solution due to various reasons. Firstly, they are aerodynamically designed to let in larger amounts of air. Secondly, due to the high amount of heat produced by race cars’ braking systems, the performance brake ducts are high-temperature tested and tried. Thirdly, the material used for the hoses is usually light and durable, which means they can be able to withstand high air pressure for a long period of time.

A suitable duct cooling system usually has 3 major sections, namely the inlet, a hose and the outlet. For maximum efficiency, the inlet should be set up where there is maximum air pressure, and the direction of the air flow is directly aligned to the funnel. Any area within the centre of the car’s nose should do the trick. The downside of placing it further from the centre is due to the fact that air flows sideways as you approach the car edges creating low-pressure zones.

When choosing the hose, size is crucial. Size determines the amount of air that gets to the pads and rotors. The outlet is usually made narrower than the inlet. The purpose of this is to increase the speed of air as it is directed towards the brake components.

In the world of racing, brakes are essential. If they fail, then the outcomes would be disastrous. With heat being a major cause of brake components damage, brake cooling systems have significantly improved the racing experience for drivers. One can finally hit the metal to the pedal worry free.

Frequently Asked Questions about Brake Ducts

What is a brake duct?

A brake duct is a component used in vehicles to enhance the cooling of the brake system. It directs airflow towards the brake components, helping to dissipate heat generated during braking. Key functions of brake ducts include:

  • Improving brake performance by maintaining optimal temperatures.
  • Reducing the risk of brake fade, which can occur when brakes overheat.
  • Extending the lifespan of brake components by preventing excessive heat buildup.
Brake ducts are commonly found in high-performance and racing vehicles, but they can also be beneficial in regular road cars, especially in demanding driving conditions.

How do anti-roll bars affect handling?

Anti-roll bars, also known as sway bars, play a crucial role in a vehicle's handling by reducing body roll during cornering. They connect the left and right sides of the suspension, helping to distribute weight more evenly across the vehicle. Effects on Handling:

  • Improved Stability: Anti-roll bars enhance stability by limiting the amount of body lean, allowing for better control during turns.
  • Increased Grip: By reducing body roll, they help maintain tyre contact with the road, improving grip and traction.
  • Enhanced Cornering Performance: They allow for sharper and more responsive cornering, making the vehicle feel more agile.
  • Reduced Understeer/Oversteer: Adjusting the stiffness of anti-roll bars can help balance the handling characteristics, reducing tendencies towards understeer or oversteer.

Is an anti-roll bar necessary?

An anti-roll bar, also known as a sway bar, is not strictly necessary for a vehicle to function, but it plays a significant role in enhancing handling and stability. Benefits of an anti-roll bar include:

  • Improved Handling: It reduces body roll during cornering, allowing for better control.
  • Increased Stability: It helps maintain a level stance, improving traction and grip.
  • Enhanced Safety: By minimising roll, it can prevent loss of control in sharp turns.
While some vehicles may perform adequately without one, especially in everyday driving conditions, performance-oriented cars typically benefit from having an anti-roll bar for optimal handling characteristics.

Can you bleed brakes on your own?

Yes, you can bleed brakes on your own with the right tools and technique. Hereā€™s how to do it: Tools Needed:

  • Brake fluid
  • Wrench or socket set
  • Clear plastic tubing
  • Container to catch fluid
  • Helper (optional)
Steps to Bleed Brakes:
  1. Start by ensuring the vehicle is on a level surface and the engine is off.
  2. Locate the brake bleeder valve on each brake caliper or wheel cylinder.
  3. Attach the clear plastic tubing to the bleeder valve and place the other end in a container.
  4. Have someone pump the brake pedal several times and hold it down.
  5. Open the bleeder valve to release air and old fluid, then close it before your helper releases the brake pedal.
  6. Repeat this process until you see clear, bubble-free fluid in the tubing.
  7. Check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder and top it up as necessary.
Make sure to follow the specific instructions for your vehicle model, as procedures may vary.

How much does it cost to fix bleeding brakes?

The cost to fix bleeding brakes can vary based on several factors, including the make and model of the vehicle and the labour rates in your area. Generally, you can expect the following costs:

  • DIY Bleeding: If you choose to bleed the brakes yourself, the cost may be minimal, typically around Ā£10 to Ā£30 for brake fluid.
  • Professional Service: Hiring a mechanic can cost between Ā£50 and Ā£100, depending on the garage and the complexity of the brake system.
  • Additional Repairs: If there are underlying issues (e.g., leaks or damaged components), costs can increase significantly, potentially ranging from Ā£100 to Ā£500 or more.

How often should you bleed your brakes?

Bleeding your brakes is essential for maintaining optimal braking performance. It is generally recommended to bleed your brakes:

  • Every 1-2 years as part of regular maintenance.
  • Whenever you replace brake components, such as calipers or brake lines.
  • If you notice a spongy brake pedal or reduced braking performance.
  • After any brake fluid contamination or leaks.
Always refer to your vehicle's owner manual for specific recommendations related to your make and model.

What do brake bleeders do?

Brake bleeders are essential components in a vehicle's braking system. Their primary function is to remove air bubbles from the brake lines, ensuring that the brake fluid can flow freely and effectively. This process is crucial for maintaining optimal braking performance. Key functions of brake bleeders include:

  • Allowing for the expulsion of air trapped in the brake lines.
  • Facilitating the replacement of old brake fluid with fresh fluid.
  • Ensuring consistent brake pedal feel and responsiveness.
  • Preventing brake system failure due to air contamination.
Properly functioning brake bleeders contribute to the overall safety and efficiency of a vehicle's braking system.

What does a bigger brake master cylinder do?

A bigger brake master cylinder increases the volume of brake fluid that can be pushed through the braking system. This can lead to several benefits:

  • Improved Brake Response: A larger cylinder can provide a quicker response when the brake pedal is pressed.
  • Increased Brake Force: It can generate more hydraulic pressure, enhancing the overall braking force applied to the wheels.
  • Better Performance with Larger Brakes: If larger brake calipers or rotors are installed, a bigger master cylinder can help maintain optimal performance.
  • Reduced Pedal Travel: It can decrease the distance the brake pedal needs to be pressed to achieve effective braking.

What does a brake master cylinder do?

The brake master cylinder is a crucial component of a vehicle's braking system. Its primary functions include:

  • Fluid Pressure Generation: It converts the force applied to the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure.
  • Brake Fluid Distribution: It distributes brake fluid to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders at each wheel.
  • System Monitoring: It often includes a reservoir to maintain the brake fluid level and may have a warning system for low fluid levels.
  • Dual Circuit Design: Many master cylinders have a dual circuit design for safety, ensuring that if one circuit fails, the other can still function.

What is the best material for brake lines?

The best materials for brake lines are:

  • Stainless Steel: Highly resistant to corrosion and offers excellent durability. Ideal for high-performance vehicles.
  • Copper-Nickel Alloy: Combines the benefits of copper and nickel, providing good corrosion resistance and flexibility.
  • Rubber: Commonly used for flexible brake lines, it offers good flexibility but may degrade over time due to heat and exposure to brake fluid.
  • PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene): Known for its chemical resistance and low friction, often used in high-performance applications.

Built by car enthusiasts, for enthusiasts, Compare Parts is the ultimate marketplace for car enthusiasts. 

Founded in 2008, we've been dedicated to bringing you the best in performance parts. Our marketplace offers top-quality car parts from leading brands worldwide, making it easy to compare car parts and find exactly what you need.
2008-2024 Bravr Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales | Company: 6045335 | VAT ID GB 917 288 301
"When in doubt, flat out" Colin McRae
My CP

Nothing to see here šŸ˜’

Your cart...šŸ’°

No products in the cart.

Cart
Theme
homeusercartcrosschevron-leftchevron-right