Understanding Brake Fluid Terms:
Understanding Brake Fluid Terms and Performance
When it comes to choosing the right brake fluid for racing or daily driving, understanding technical terms like boiling points, viscosity, and compressibility is key. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Dry Boiling Point (ERBP)
- Definition: The temperature at which brand-new brake fluid starts boiling under DOT-specified conditions.
- Details: Tested from a sealed bottle, free from contaminants like moisture or paint residues.
- Importance: Higher dry boiling points indicate better initial performance under extreme heat, making it crucial for motorsport brake fluids.
Wet Boiling Point (Wet ERBP)
- Definition: The boiling point of brake fluid after it absorbs moisture, tested per DOT procedures.
- Key Facts:
- Fluids like DOT 4 absorb moisture faster than DOT 3, lowering their boiling point over time.
- High-performance options like Torque RT700 Racing Brake Fluid maintain wet boiling points even with increased water content.
Pro Tip: Flush and replace brake fluid before track events for optimal performance.
High Temperature Stability
- Explanation: Measures how consistent the boiling point remains as fluid heats up.
- Performance Benchmark: Torque RT700 Racing Brake Fluid offers an industry-leading stability of just 2°F (1°C), compared to the allowable variation of up to 14°F in other fluids.
Viscosity and ABS Systems
- What It Means: Viscosity determines how fluid flows, especially in ABS and DSC systems.
- DOT 3 fluids flow better in cold conditions, while DOT 5.1 is optimized for both low viscosity and high boiling points.
- Torque’s high-viscosity fluids ensure consistent brake feel under extreme conditions.
Compressibility
- Impact on Performance: Low compressibility equals a firmer brake pedal, enhancing driver confidence.
- Silicone-based DOT 5 fluids, with high compressibility, are unsuitable for racing.
- Torque RT700 is formulated for minimal compressibility, offering unmatched pedal feel and precision.
pH and Corrosion Resistance
- Balance Matters: The right pH range (7-11.5) prevents corrosion without compromising high-temperature stability. Torque RT700 balances these factors to protect brake components.
Reserve Alkalinity
- Definition: Indicates how well a fluid resists becoming acidic over time.
- Advantage: Torque RT700 has the highest reserve alkalinity available, lasting longer and reducing the need for frequent fluid changes.
Brake Fluid Types Explained
DOT 3
- Dry Boiling Point: 401°F (205°C)
- Wet Boiling Point: 284°F (140°C)
- Usage: Common in older vehicles; absorbs 1-2% moisture yearly.
DOT 4
- Dry Boiling Point: 446°F (230°C)
- Wet Boiling Point: 311°F (155°C)
- Best For: ABS systems, high-speed braking, and performance vehicles.
DOT 5
- Base: Silicone, non-hygroscopic.
- Warnings: Poor for racing due to compressibility, incompatibility with DOT 3/4/5.1, and water pooling.
DOT 5.1
- Base: Borate ester, hygroscopic.
- Usage: High-performance and racing applications, compatible with DOT 3/4.
Brake Fluid Compatibility and Maintenance
- Mixing Fluids: DOT 3, 4, and 5.1 are compatible, but avoid mixing with DOT 5 (silicone).
- Water Absorption: Glycol-based fluids absorb water to prevent corrosion but require regular changes.
- Contamination Prevention: Use tightly sealed bottles and replace caps promptly during maintenance.
Why Choose Torque RT700 Racing Brake Fluid?
- Unmatched Boiling Points: With superior wet and dry ERBP, it outperforms competitors in extreme conditions.
- Low Compressibility: Provides the firmest brake feel for precision driving.
- Long-Lasting Alkalinity: Protects your system longer, saving time and money.
- Race-Tested: Extensively tested by professional drivers to ensure top-tier performance.
Upgrade to Torque RT700 Racing Brake Fluid for ultimate reliability, performance, and confidence on the track and beyond.