What may cause increased brake heat during operation?

Increased brake heat during operation is primarily caused by continuous braking or over-braking in heavy traffic. When a vehicle frequently brakes, particularly in stop-and-go traffic or during prolonged descents, the brake components are subject to repeated friction, resulting in elevated temperatures. Over-braking occurs when the brakes are applied more than necessary to slow down or stop, leading to excessive wear and heat generation.

The mechanics behind this involve the conversion of kinetic energy (the energy of motion) into thermal energy through friction between the brake pads and the brake rotors. This process is intensified in heavy traffic situations where the driver is relying heavily on the brakes to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

In contrast, frequent stops at traffic lights may contribute to brake heat, but they do not typically result in the same level of continuous strain on the braking system as experienced in heavy traffic scenarios. Driving on wet roads can actually reduce brake effectiveness due to reduced friction, and while using too much engine power can lead to various issues, it does not directly correlate with increased brake heat like continuous braking does.