Understanding the Viscosity of Glycerine and Oil in Hydraulic Brakes

In summary, the use of glycerine in hydraulic brakes is not feasible due to various other requirements such as lubricity, bulk modulus, and boiling point. The main function of a brake fluid is to transmit and amplify the input force, and it must also withstand extreme temperatures, not corrode components, and not absorb water. While glycerine may have a higher viscosity, it does not meet these necessary criteria.
  • #1
purvangthanki
1
0
Viscocity of glycerine is high than that of oil then why it can't be used in hydraulic brakes..?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


I'm sure there are many more requirements than viscosity. Lubricity, bulk modulus, and boiling point are the first things that pop into mind.
 
  • #3


The hydraulics in a brake system only need to transmit and multiply the input force applied at the brake pedal. In addition, the fluid needs to withstand high and low temperatures (not freeze or boil), not corrode the brakes, brake lines, or any soft components of the system, not absorb water, etc. Having a high viscosity doesn't necessarily indicate a superior brake fluid, and would probably be unusable in cold temperatures.
 

1. What is viscosity?

Viscosity is a measure of a fluid's resistance to flow. It is a property that describes how thick or thin a fluid is.

2. How is viscosity measured?

Viscosity can be measured using a viscometer, which is a device that measures the time it takes for a fluid to flow through a narrow tube under a specific pressure. The higher the viscosity, the longer it takes for the fluid to flow through the tube.

3. Why is viscosity important in hydraulic brakes?

In hydraulic brakes, viscosity is important because it determines the speed at which the brake fluid flows through the system. A fluid with high viscosity will flow slower and provide more resistance, resulting in a stronger braking force.

4. How does glycerine and oil affect the viscosity in hydraulic brakes?

Glycerine and oil are both commonly used as additives in brake fluid to improve its lubricating properties. Glycerine has a higher viscosity than oil, so adding glycerine to brake fluid will increase its overall viscosity. This can result in a slower flow rate and potentially impact the performance of the brakes.

5. What factors can affect the viscosity of glycerine and oil in hydraulic brakes?

The viscosity of glycerine and oil in hydraulic brakes can be affected by temperature, pressure, and the ratio of glycerine to oil in the brake fluid. Higher temperatures can decrease the viscosity, while higher pressures can increase the viscosity. The ratio of glycerine to oil can also affect the overall viscosity of the brake fluid.

Similar threads

  • Other Physics Topics
Replies
31
Views
14K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • Other Physics Topics
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
489
  • Other Physics Topics
Replies
1
Views
953
  • Other Physics Topics
Replies
9
Views
16K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Back
Top