Drum Brake Interface Pressure Distributions

Abstract

A review of recent research work predicting contact and pressure distributions at the friction interface of drum brakes is presented. Previously published results are summarized and used, together with new results, to illustrate the effects of friction coefficient, lining compressibility and brake shoe stiffness, actuation force, lining/drum conformity, and wear, on brake performance. The results are discussed in the context of geometry and bulk deformation effects, and of macroscopic interface pressure distribution effects, and confirm the importance of interface pressure distribution in the performance and continued operation of drum brakes to required design levels.