Brake fluid, often referred to as "brake oil," is a critical component in the hydraulic braking system of a vehicle. It serves as the medium that transmits pressure from the brake pedal to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders, enabling the vehicle to stop safely. To ensure driving safety, it's essential to use the correct type of brake fluid as specified in the vehicle’s manual.
Q: How should locomotive brake fluid be used?
A: The brake fluid must meet several key requirements: 1) It should have good chemical stability; 2) It must not corrode metal parts and should dissolve any absorbed water without causing separation or sedimentation; 3) It needs to have appropriate viscosity and good low-temperature fluidity; 4) It should provide efficient pressure transmission for the braking system.
In China, there are three main types of vehicle brake fluid: 1) Alcohol-based, made from refined castor oil mixed with ethanol or n-butanol; 2) Synthetic, typically composed of ether, alcohol, and ester additives; 3) Mineral oil-based, which uses a distillate oil with a boiling point above 210°C, along with tackifiers, antioxidants, rust inhibitors, and dyes. For agricultural locomotives, two options are commonly recommended: 1) Alcohol-based fluids No. 1 and No. 3—No. 1 is suitable for general areas, while No. 3 is ideal for high-speed and heavy-duty vehicles in hot climates; 2) Mineral oil-based fluids No. 9 and No. 7—No. 9 is suitable for temperatures above -25°C, and No. 7 is better for colder regions.
Q: What should you pay attention to when using brake fluid?
A: 1) Avoid using alcohol-based fluids in extreme cold or hot mountainous areas. 2) Always inspect the brake fluid before adding it; if impurities or white precipitates are present, filter it first. 3) Never mix different types of brake fluid, as this can cause separation and reduce braking efficiency. 4) When replacing the fluid, thoroughly clean and dry the brake system. 5) If using mineral oil-based fluid, replace rubber cups and hoses with oil-resistant ones to prevent corrosion. 6) Synthetic brake fluid is prone to absorbing moisture and may damage paint, so keep it sealed and avoid contact with the vehicle body. 7) Store brake fluid away from open flames and direct sunlight to prevent degradation. 8) Replace brake fluid every 1–2 years, especially when replacing the master cylinder piston.
Q: How can you tell if the brake fluid is genuine?
A: Many counterfeit brake fluids are available on the market, which can lead to serious safety issues. A simple test involves pouring a small amount on your palm. Genuine brake fluid usually feels cool at first and then warms up slightly as it evaporates. If it feels abnormally cold and evaporates slowly, it may be fake and should not be used.
Q: What should you do if you notice low brake fluid while driving?
A: If the brake system runs out of fluid, follow these steps: 1) Do not add different types of brake fluid, as mixing them can cause separation and loss of braking power. 2) Identify the cause of the fluid loss and address it accordingly—replace damaged seals, tighten loose connections, or add the same type of fluid if it's naturally lost. 3) If no matching fluid is available, drain the remaining fluid, clean the system with alcohol, and refill with new fluid. 4) In an emergency, you can temporarily use alcohol or liquor, but this will reduce braking effectiveness. Drive slowly, avoid sudden stops, and replace the substitute as soon as possible with the correct brake fluid.
Q: How can you prevent water contamination in brake fluid?
A: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture, which can lead to separation, reduced performance, and poor low-temperature operation. To prevent this: 1) Shorten the replacement interval if operating in wet or humid conditions. 2) Clean the brake system thoroughly when switching between fluid types. 3) If you notice white particles in the fluid, filter it before use.
Q: How do you bleed air from the hydraulic braking system?
A: Bleeding air from the braking system usually requires two people. One person presses the brake pedal, while the other works under the vehicle. Steps include: 1) Open the brake fluid reservoir, clean the area, and fill it with fresh fluid. 2) Remove the dust cover from one of the bleed valves and prepare a wrench. 3) The person in the cab presses the pedal quickly and holds it down. The person under the vehicle then loosens the bleed valve slightly, allowing fluid and air to escape. Once the pedal becomes soft, tighten the valve and release the pedal. Repeat this process for each brake cylinder until all air is removed. After bleeding, check the fluid level and top it up to the recommended level.
Q: How should brake fluid be stored?
A: Store brake fluid indoors, away from sunlight and rain. Keep it sealed and avoid mixing with petroleum products or moisture, which can cause degradation. Glass containers are ideal, while rubber or plastic containers should be avoided. Always keep the container tightly sealed and clean.
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