Science Fair Project Encyclopedia
Brake fluid
Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid used in brake applications in automobiles and light trucks. It is used to transfer force under pressure from where it is created through hydraulic lines to the braking mechanism near the wheels. It works because liquids are not appreciably compressible. Braking applications produce a lot of heat so brake fluid must have a high boiling point to remain effective and must also not freeze under normal temperatures. These requirements eliminate most water-based solutions.
Brake fluid can come in a number of forms, standardized under the DOT standard. DOT 2 is essentially castor oil; DOT 3 , DOT 4 , and DOT 5.1 are composed of various glycol esters and ethers; and DOT 5 is silicone-based. Most cars produced in the US use DOT 3.
Components of mineral brake fluid
- alkyl ester
- aliphatic amine
- diethylene glycol
- diethylene glycol monobutyl ether
- diethylene glycol monoethyl ether
- diethylene glycol monomethyl ether
- dimethyl dipropylene glycol
- polyethylene glycol monobutyl ether
- polyethylene glycol monoethyl ether
- polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether
- polyethylene oxide
- triethylene glycol monobutyl ether
- triethylene glycol monoethyl ether
- triethylene glycol monomethyl ether
Components of silicone brake fluid
- di-2-ethylhexyl sebacate
- dimethyl polysiloxane
- tributyl phosphate
External links
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