Understanding the Viscosity of Glycerine and Oil in Hydraulic Brakes

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies that glycerine, despite its higher viscosity compared to oil, is unsuitable for hydraulic brakes due to several critical factors. Key requirements for brake fluids include lubricity, bulk modulus, boiling point, and temperature stability. The fluid must effectively transmit and multiply force while resisting corrosion, water absorption, and extreme temperatures. High viscosity alone does not guarantee performance in hydraulic systems, particularly in cold conditions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of hydraulic brake systems
  • Knowledge of fluid properties: viscosity, lubricity, and bulk modulus
  • Familiarity with temperature effects on brake fluids
  • Awareness of corrosion resistance in hydraulic components
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of brake fluids, focusing on lubricity and boiling points
  • Explore the impact of temperature on fluid performance in hydraulic systems
  • Investigate materials used in brake lines and their corrosion resistance
  • Learn about the testing standards for hydraulic brake fluids
USEFUL FOR

Automotive engineers, brake system designers, and anyone involved in the formulation and testing of hydraulic fluids will benefit from this discussion.

purvangthanki
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Viscocity of glycerine is high than that of oil then why it can't be used in hydraulic brakes..?
 
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I'm sure there are many more requirements than viscosity. Lubricity, bulk modulus, and boiling point are the first things that pop into mind.
 


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.
 

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