Mechanical Brakes


In the context of aerospace engineering, mechanical brakes are devices that are used to decelerate or halt the motion of an aircraft or spacecraft. They function by converting kinetic energy into heat energy through friction. The braking system in an aircraft is a critical component that ensures safe landing and takeoff. It consists of multiple parts including brake discs, brake pads, and hydraulic systems. The brake discs and pads are the primary components that create the necessary friction to slow down the aircraft. The hydraulic system, on the other hand, is responsible for transmitting the force applied by the pilot on the brake pedals to the brake discs and pads. In spacecraft, mechanical brakes are used in different forms such as drogue parachutes and retro rockets to slow down the spacecraft during re-entry or landing. The design and operation of mechanical brakes in aerospace applications require a deep understanding of materials science, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.


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