What happens to brake drums when they heat up?

What happens to brake drums when they heat up?

• A. They contract toward the brake linings.
• B. They expand away from the brake linings.
• C. They remain at the same size regardless of temperature.
• D. They change color to indicate temperature.

Answer: (B)

When brake drums heat up, they expand away from the brake linings due to thermal expansion. When brakes are applied, friction generates heat, causing the temperature of the brake components, including the drums, to rise. As the temperature increases, the metal of the brake drums expands. This thermal expansion can lead to a larger gap between the brake drums and the brake linings. If the expansion is significant, it can result in reduced braking efficiency, as there is less contact area between the linings and the drums. This is an important aspect for drivers to understand, as overheating can also lead to brake fade, impacting vehicle performance and safety.

When brake drums heat up, they expand away from the brake linings due to thermal expansion. When brakes are applied, friction generates heat, causing the temperature of the brake components, including the drums, to rise. As the temperature increases, the metal of the brake drums expands. This thermal expansion can lead to a larger gap between the brake drums and the brake linings. If the expansion is significant, it can result in reduced braking efficiency, as there is less contact area between the linings and the drums. This is an important aspect for drivers to understand, as overheating can also lead to brake fade, impacting vehicle performance and safety.