What are the typical materials used for brake lines?

Brake lines are critical components in a vehicle's braking system as they transport brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders. Typically, brake lines are constructed from materials that can withstand high pressure and provide reliable performance.

Steel is commonly used for rigid brake lines due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. It can handle the high pressures produced within the brake system and ensures a strong, leak-proof connection. Reinforced rubber is often used for flexible brake lines, which must bend and flex as the vehicle navigates turns and travels over bumps. This type of material is designed to withstand exposure to oil, brake fluid, and other elements without deteriorating.

The other materials mentioned, such as plastic or aluminum, while sometimes used in other applications, do not offer the necessary strength and durability needed for brake lines. Glass or ceramic would not be suitable due to their fragility under pressure, and carbon fiber, while strong, is not used for brake lines due to cost and material properties that do not suit high-pressure applications. Cardboard is not a suitable material for the automotive environment, especially in the context of brake lines, where structural integrity and fluid containment are paramount.