Different Brake Types on Boat Trailers

1. Inertia Brakes (Mechanical Brakes)

Principle: When the trailer moves forward due to inertia during deceleration or downhill travel, a mechanical device (such as a brake lever or hydraulic piston) activates the braking system through the relative motion between the trailer and the towing vehicle.
Working Process:
When the towing vehicle brakes, the trailer's inertia causes it to push forward against the connection device (e.g., coupler).
The force is transmitted via mechanical linkages or a hydraulic system to the trailer's brake drum or brake pads, achieving braking.
The braking force is proportional to the trailer's inertia (the greater the inertia, the stronger the braking).
Features:
No external power or air source required; simple structure.
Commonly used in small to medium-sized trailers (e.g., caravans, small cargo trailers).

2.Electrically Controlled Brakes (Electromagnetic Brakes)

Principle: The braking system of the trailer is activated by the braking signal from the towing vehicle (such as the brake light circuit).

Working Process:

When the driver presses the brake pedal in the towing vehicle, the brake light circuit is energized, sending a signal to the trailer's brake controller.Based on preset parameters or inputs from sensors (e.g., deceleration sensors), the controller delivers electric current to the electromagnetic brakes on the trailer.The electromagnetic force actuates the brake pads to press against the brake disc, achieving braking.

Features:Adjustable braking force to accommodate different loads or road conditions.

Requires a power supply (typically provided by the towing vehicle via a 7-pin connector).

Commonly used in large or high-end trailers.

3.Air Brakes (Commercial Trailers)

Principle: Used for heavy-duty trailers, the braking system is controlled by the pneumatic system of the towing vehicle.
Working Process:
The towing vehicle releases compressed air to activate the trailer's brake chambers, releasing the brakes (default state is "brakes engaged").
When the towing vehicle applies brakes, the air pressure decreases, and spring force activates the trailer's brake pads.
Features:
High safety (automatic braking in case of disconnection).
Requires professional pneumatic line connections.