A complete engineering guide to semi trailer brake systems — drum vs disc brakes, EBS and ABS logic, brake fade, overheating, legal standards, performance calculators and maintenance tools.
Drum vs Disc, ABS, EBS, brake balance and stability systems explained.
Estimate brake fade risk based on load, slope and brake architecture.
Calculate drum/disc temperature rise during downhill braking.
ECE R13, EU braking rules, FMVSS 121 and international compliance.
Comparison of heat management, braking consistency, response time, durability and life-cycle cost.
| Feature | Drum Brake | Disc Brake |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Dissipation | Poor — prone to brake fade under heavy thermal load | Excellent — very fast heat release |
| Maintenance Cost | Low — cheaper shoes & parts | Higher — premium calipers & discs |
| Off-Road Durability | Excellent — enclosed, dust/mud resistant | Moderate — exposed to debris |
| Response Time | Slower, mechanical delay | Fast & stable — instant response |
| Overheating Resistance | Weak — enclosed design traps heat | Strong — open architecture cools rapidly |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Consistency During Downhill | Performance degrades over time | Stable with minimal fade |
Estimate fade risk considering mass, slope gradient and brake architecture.
Estimate brake temperature increase during prolonged downhill braking.
Summary of global regulations affecting semi trailer braking systems.