brake, in technology: Electric Brakes

A machine that is driven by an electric motor can sometimes use its motor as a brake. Because inertia keeps the machine's shafts moving after the current to the electric motor has been shut off, the machine keeps the motor's armature turning. While this is happening, if the motor's action can be changed to that of a generator, the electric current produced will be drawing its energy from the machine, thus slowing it. However, since such a braking method is not suitable for bringing the machine to a quick stop, it is usually supplemented by friction brakes.

Sections in this article:

• Introduction
• The Vacuum Brake System
• The Hydraulic Brake System
• The Air Brake System
• Braking Systems
• Electric Brakes
• Friction Brakes

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