Hõõrdpidurdamine

Hõõrdpidurdamine is a braking method that utilizes friction to slow down or stop a moving object. This process involves bringing two surfaces into contact, where the resistance to their sliding motion generates heat and dissipates kinetic energy. The effectiveness of friction braking depends on several factors, including the coefficient of friction between the surfaces, the applied force, and the contact area.

In vehicles, friction braking is commonly achieved through disc brakes or drum brakes. Disc brakes consist of a rotor attached to the wheel and a caliper containing brake pads. When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic pressure forces the pads to clamp onto the rotor, creating friction and slowing the wheel. Drum brakes involve brake shoes that expand outward against the inner surface of a rotating drum, also generating friction.

Beyond vehicles, friction braking is employed in various applications. It is used in machinery to control speed, such as in industrial equipment and power tools. Bicycle brakes, whether caliper or cantilever style, also rely on friction pads pressing against the wheel rim. Even simple actions like rubbing one's hands together to warm them up demonstrate the principle of friction generation. The heat produced during friction braking is a byproduct of energy conversion, transforming kinetic energy into thermal energy. This heat must be managed to prevent overheating and potential failure of the braking system.