Brake fluid

[1] The origins of modern braking systems date back to an event more than a century ago - in 1917, Scotsman Malcolm Lockheed patented a hydraulic actuated braking system.

Most Brake fluids are manufactured to meet standards set by international, national, or local organizations or government agencies.

The Society of Automotive Engineers SAE has published standards J1703, J1704, and J1705, reflecting progressively higher performance for brake fluids.

Brake fluid 'in use', or not labeled DOT compliant, is found in any color.

[10] An advantage over other forms of brake fluid is that silicone has a more stable viscosity index over a wider temperature range.

[14] For a faster reaction of the ABS and ESP systems, DOT 4 and DOT 5.1 brake fluids exist with low viscosity meeting the maximum 750 mm2/s viscosity at −40 °C (−40 °F) requirement of ISO 4925 class 6.

This vaporization creates a problem because vapor is highly compressible relative to liquid, and therefore negates the hydraulic transfer of braking force - so the brakes will fail to stop the vehicle.

[15] Quality standards refer to a brake fluid's "dry" and "wet" boiling points.

Additives (corrosion inhibitors) are added to the base fluid to accomplish this.

[15] The advantage of the Citroën LHM mineral oil based brake fluid is the absence of corrosion.

Seals may wear out at high mileages but otherwise these systems have exceptional longevity.

[18][user-generated source] Brake fluids must maintain a low level of compressibility, even with varying temperatures to accommodate different environmental conditions.

[19][20][21] The brake cylinder piston pressurizes a system of hydraulic tubes, each of which leads to a different wheel.

It helps to regulate temperature, ensuring that components are resistant to the heat generated during braking.

The United States armed forces have standardised on silicone brake fluid since the 1990s.

Silicone fluid is used extensively in cold climates, particularly in Russia and Finland.