Air Brake Practice Test

Which type of brake system is associated with brake fade?

1. Drum brakes

2. Disc brakes

3. Spring brakes

4. Electric brakes

The correct answer is: Drum brakes

Brake fade occurs primarily due to the overheating of the brake components, which reduces their effectiveness. In the context of drum brakes, this phenomenon is particularly relevant because drum brakes have a tendency to trap heat within the drum itself. As the drum and the brake shoes heat up from prolonged use—such as during lengthy descents or repeated braking—the friction material can lose its ability to generate adequate friction, leading to a reduction in braking power. This heat retention in drum brakes can be exacerbated under certain driving conditions where they are used heavily, causing them to overheat more quickly than other types of braking systems. In contrast, disc brakes are generally better at dissipating heat due to their design, which allows for more airflow and cooling. As a result, they are less prone to brake fade compared to drum brakes. Spring brakes and electric brakes do not traditionally experience fade in the same way, as their operation and design do not involve the same issues of heat retention that are prevalent in drum brakes. Understanding the operational characteristics and design differences of each brake type is crucial in recognizing why drum brakes are specifically associated with brake fade.