Bremszylinder

Bremszylinder, or brake cylinder, is a hydraulic component used in braking systems to convert hydraulic pressure into mechanical force that applies the brakes. It is a core element of both drum and disc brake configurations, though its exact form varies with the system.

In drum brakes, the Bremszylinder typically takes the form of a wheel cylinder located at each wheel. Each wheel cylinder contains one or more pistons that are moved by brake fluid pressure when the driver applies the brake pedal. The pistons push the brake shoes outward against the drum, creating friction that slows or stops the vehicle. In disc brakes, the equivalent function is performed by pistons inside a brake caliper; when hydraulic pressure is applied, the pistons push brake pads against the rotor.

Construction and operation are simple in principle. ABremszylinder comprises a cylindrical housing, a piston or pistons, seals to contain hydraulic fluid, and inlet and outlet ports connected to the braking circuit. The master cylinder, fed by the brake fluid reservoir, creates the hydraulic pressure that drives the piston(s). The necessary return force is provided either by a spring mechanism or by the design of the braking system itself, returning the piston to its resting position when pressure decreases.

Common issues include internal or external leaks, seal wear, corrosion, or stuck pistons, which can lead to reduced braking efficiency or spongy pedal feel. Maintenance involves inspecting for leaks, bleeding the braking system to remove air, and replacing worn seals or pistons as needed.

In German-language technical literature, Bremszylinder denotes the hydraulic brake cylinder component responsible for converting fluid pressure into the braking force, whether in drum or disc braking systems.