From Jalopnik · B. L. Johnson · · 1m 50s
Electromagnetic Brakes: Pros And Cons
Electric trailer brakes offer faster stops and less maintenance but drain batteries and struggle with heavy loads.
In brief
Electric trailer brakes offer faster stops and less maintenance but drain batteries and struggle with heavy loads. Electromagnetic brakes reduce maintenance and stopping time but require more power and aren't ideal for heavy trailers. Originally reported by Jalopnik.
Electric Trailer Brakes
Electric trailer brakes require less maintenance and install easily compared to hydraulic brakes.
Faster Activation
Electric brakes activate instantly when the pedal is pressed, unlike hydraulic brakes that rely on fluid pressure.
Less Battery Drain
Electric brakes cause greater battery drain than hydraulic brakes, especially for heavy commercial trailers.
Eddy Current Brakes
Eddy current brakes work with disc or drum brakes to reduce wear and fade without friction.
85% Braking Efficiency
Eddy current brakes handle 85% of braking, extending conventional brakes' life by seven times.
No Brake Fade
Eddy current brakes prevent overheating and wear by taking most of the braking load.
Affordable Upfront Cost
Electric trailer brakes cost $200 to $600 per axle versus $550 to $1,200 for hydraulic brakes.
Hybrid Braking Systems
Hybrid brakes combine electric signals with hydraulic operation for optimal speed and power.
Weight Concerns
Eddy current brakes add over 500 pounds to vehicles, making them impractical for small cars.
Constant Power Need
Electric brakes require constant power from the alternator and battery to function properly.
Water Immersion Risk
Brakes relying on electrical power shouldn't be submerged in water, making boat trailers unsafe.
Power Limitations
Electric brakes are less powerful than hydraulic brakes and struggle with heavy loads.
Eddy Current Limitations
Eddy current brakes lose effectiveness at low speeds and need conventional brakes for stopping.
What Happens Next
Trailer owners must weigh power needs, weight, and load capacity when choosing brakes.
The main idea
Electromagnetic brakes reduce maintenance and stopping time but require more power and aren't ideal for heavy trailers.
