What is the only way to cool hot brakes?

When dealing with hot brakes, the most effective method for cooling them is through airflow, specifically by utilizing portable cooling fans. These fans provide a directed flow of air that helps dissipate heat away from the brakes more efficiently than other methods. This increase in airflow reduces the temperature of the brake components, which is crucial to prevent brake failure or further heat-related damage.

The use of portable cooling fans has the advantage of being portable and easy to deploy, ensuring that the cooling process can be initiated quickly and safely. Other methods, such as water sprays or chemical extinguishers, may not only be less effective but could also pose additional risks, such as thermal shock to the brake materials or creating slippery surfaces. Jet thrust airflow is less controlled and dependent on aircraft operation, making it impractical for deliberate cooling of hot brakes. Therefore, using portable cooling fans is recognized as the best and most reliable approach for managing hot brakes effectively.