The Aircraft Brake System and Tactics for Efficient Stopping Power

In order for an aircraft to safely land on a runway, reduce its speed, and undertake taxi operations, they rely on aircraft brake systems. While brakes are paramount for reducing speed, they must be used correctly and responsibly in order to maintain efficient control of the aircraft and to ensure that brake parts do not fail unexpectedly. In this blog, we will discuss the aircraft brake system and its functionality, as well as provide tactics for correctly using such equipment. 

The design of the brake system will often vary based on the aircraft that it is installed on due to the fact that the size, weight, and landing speed of a particular model will dictate what equipment is needed for safe stopping power and shock absorption. As such, light and general aviation aircraft may utilize a single disc or rotor on their main wheels while a larger commercial airliner may have heavy, dual-disc systems. With most aircraft brake systems, pilots may utilize brake pedals that are located on each rudder pedal, and depressing the pedal will actuate hydraulics, mechanical linkages, or electrical components that will squeeze a brake disc or other component with a brake caliper in order to create stopping power through friction. When the pedal is released, pressure drops so that the wheel can turn freely again. While effectiveness of brakes may decrease very slowly with regular use, malfunctions and failures can be determined by brake fade, noisy brakes, spongy pedals, or other such conditions. If any brake deficiency is detected, the aircraft should not be flown until sufficient maintenance is carried out for safety. 

In order to efficiently stop an aircraft upon touchdown, all the aircraft’s weight should be placed on the wheels if possible. By dumping lift with the actuation of various flight surfaces, the weight of the aircraft can be placed on the wheels for full braking power. It is important to know when the brakes should be applied, as applying braking pressure at the moment of touchdown can lock the main tires in place and damage components. When the runway is sufficiently long enough, pilots may be able to allow the aircraft to decelerate for a distance before brakes are activated.

The brakes of aircraft do not need to be actuated at the same time or in equal force during operations, thus they can be used to steer the aircraft while on the ground. With the rudder pedal and a steerable nosewheel configuration, pilots can apply braking force in the direction they wish to turn, and speed can be kept at a slow pace for safety. For non-steerable nosewheels, turning can be achieved with minimal differential pressure and power as brakes are applied in the desired turn direction.

The parking brake is important when the aircraft is to remain stationary, and it is paramount that pilots know how to correctly use them. Parking brakes are often actuated through a two-step process involving the pilot depressing the brake pedals and then pulling the parking brake knob. By actuating parking brakes in such a manner, the brake valve is closed so that the system is locked in place. As the brake valve is what determines the effectiveness of parking brakes, it is important to replace them whenever they begin developing leaks. It is also crucial that one never leaves the parking brake engaged when towing is carried out as it can highly damage landing gear components and tires.

With the correct usage of aircraft brake systems, such assemblies can be best protected from unnecessary wear and safe landing and taxi procedures may be carried out with ease. At Aviation Axis, we serve as a premier online distributor of industrial supplies, aircraft components, NSN parts, and much more. Whether you are in need of brake discs, brake calipers, rudder pedals, or other such components, we can fulfill all your operational requirements with competitive pricing and rapid lead-times. Get started with a personalized quote today when you fill out and submit an Instant RFQ form as provided on our website.


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