pidurivõimendi

A pidurivõimendi, or brake booster, is a device that assists the driver in applying the brakes by increasing the force applied to the brake pedal. This amplification of force reduces the physical effort required to stop the vehicle, making braking easier and safer, especially in emergency situations.

Most modern vehicles employ a vacuum-assisted brake booster. This type of booster utilizes the vacuum generated by the engine's intake manifold to create a pressure differential across a diaphragm. When the brake pedal is pressed, a valve opens, allowing atmospheric pressure to push on one side of the diaphragm while engine vacuum acts on the other. This pressure difference generates a force that is transmitted to the master cylinder, significantly multiplying the driver's pedal input.

Another type of brake booster is the hydraulic brake booster. These systems use hydraulic pressure from the power steering pump or a dedicated hydraulic pump to augment braking force. While less common in passenger cars today, they can be found in some heavier vehicles or older designs. Electric brake boosters are also emerging, using an electric motor to provide the boosting force, offering more precise control and potentially improved efficiency.

The brake booster is a critical safety component. Its failure can lead to a substantially harder brake pedal and longer stopping distances, making it imperative to address any issues promptly. Regular maintenance and checks of the brake system, including the booster, are essential for ensuring optimal braking performance and vehicle safety.