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A friction disc plate is an essential part of the braking system of any vehicle. It works by pressuring the caliper against the rotor, which generates the necessary friction for the vehicle to slow down or stop. Generally, the materials used for the disc plate remain the same. However, there are a few types of friction disc plates based on the manufacturing process.
Drum Brake Friction Disc Plates
Drum Friction Plates are the older type of brake systems commonly seen in cars manufactured in the 1950s and 1960s. The drum plates are still there, but they are usually at the rear wheel. An axel encloses the drum brake parts, and this makes up the brake shoe and brake drum. When a driver presses on the brake pedal, the brake shoe gets expanded against the brake drum. This creates enough friction for the vehicle to stop. Although the drum friction plate is not very popular, it still works effectively on vehicles with rear drum brakes.
Slotted Friction Disc Plates
Many manufacturers use slotted friction disc plates on performance vehicles or those that require heavy-duty work. The slotted plates have straight grooves cut into them. Some may have a curved pattern, while others have a parallel design with a cross-drilled hole. The purpose of the groove is to get rid of gasses that build up between the pad and rotor, increasing the stopping power of the vehicle. Slotted friction disc plates also have improved venting, which keeps the braking system cool, reducing the risk of overheating. Buyers will find slotted plates in sports cars, racing cars, and high-performance SUVs.
Drilled Friction Disc Plates
Drilled friction disc plates have holes that are evenly drilled throughout the disc. Like the slotted variants, this type of rotor is mostly used on high-performance vehicles. The drilled holes improve ventilation, which cools the entire braking system. It also reduces the weight of the entire rotor, enhancing the vehicle's acceleration. While the drilled rotor may offer various benefits, some experts worry that the drilled holes may crack over time and cause the rotor to fail.
Blanked Friction Disc Plates
A blanked friction disc plate doesn't have any engraving or markings. This makes the rotor look very smooth. Like the other discs mentioned above, the blanked rotor has its own advantage. Many vehicles with rear wheels use blanked friction disc plates. The discs work efficiently on less demanding brake systems where stuttering and roughness are not ideal. As a result, many car manufacturers will use it in sedans, MPVs, and other regular cars that don'T go over rough terrains.
The working surfaces of the friction discs include once again, the friction material, which in itself includes many compounds, and the backing plate. The backing plate provides the integrity of the disc and transfers the force generated from the calliper to the disc through the medium of the performance material. Some backing plates are made from cast iron. Other materials can include types of steel, aluminium, or composite materials. Materials like aluminium and composite are good for lightweight cars that need to perform at higher levels, such as racing cars. In those types of vehicles, there may also be a shim and a wear indicator that helps the driver know that the brake pads need to be changed. A shim is usually made from soft steel and helps provide a cushion between the backing plate and the caliper. The cushioning helps to make the brakes quieter when applied. The wear indicator lets the driver know that the brake pads are almost worn out, but some manufacturers install them, and some don't. The machinery will have a specific kind of disc brake plate that works with friction and should be referred to when purchasing plates.
It is essential to keep the machine's friction and contact surfaces clean. This can be accomplished with the help of brake cleaner. A non- soapy cloth can be used to clean the machine parts. It is essential to pay attention to the underside of the machine parts because that's where most debris accumulates. It is also advisable to refrain from touching the contact surfaces because the skin has oil that can transfer and then affect the machine's functionality. If the disc brake plates have developed a grinding noise or a vibrating sound while braking, it's best to check them as soon as possible. Disc plates wear out quickly when they brake suddenly or drive in heavy traffic, so it's best to be proactive and research the machine's specs so that the parts can be replaced quickly.
Friction discs are useful in many industries that rely heavily on machines and vehicles. Knowing where they are usually applied can help one understand their value and demand.
Agriculture
Friction discs are key parts of tillers and tractors. In those machines, they help till the soil, cut weeds, and clutch function. The smooth action of those discs leads to efficient farm operations at low maintenance costs and STC.
Automotive
Friction discs are used in vehicle transmission and braking systems. They serve the same purpose by enabling gear shifts and stops smoothly while wearing out steadily. The lifespan of those discs matches the needs of cars or trucks.
Construction
A lot of heavy machines used in the building industry, like excavators, concrete mixers, loaders, and compactors, have friction discs in their clutches and brakes. Good working condition of those discs leads to reliable mixing, loading, and braking functions.
Mining
Friction discs can also be found in mining machinery, such as crushers and draglines. The harsh environment of mines demands discs that are strong, durable, and resilient to extreme conditions.
Manufacturing
Heavy equipment used to make things, like presses, lathes, and mills, have friction discs in their braking and clutch systems. Their reliable handling, control, and precision of braking and clutching are very important in achieving accurate braking and smooth cutting during operations.
Transport
Friction discs have a lot of varied roles to fulfil in the transportation industry, whether it's in high-speed trains, ships, or buses. Speed control and ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey are very important. Disc longevity and performance strongly affect transport efficiency.
Material selection
Choosing an appropriate material is the most important selection criterion when buying a disc brake friction plate. The driving force, stopping power, and disc wear will all be influenced by the material.
Driving needs
It is also important to select the friction plate based on driving needs. Whether a person drives a high-performance sports car, an everyday vehicle, or an off-road truck will influence the type of friction plate they need to use.
Climate and weather conditions
The choice of friction plates can be affected by climate and weather conditions. For example, wet or damp conditions can make the friction plates more prone to slipping, necessitating the selection of plates with better wet performance.
Driving style
Friction plate selection may also depend on driving style, for instance, frequent emergency braking and rapid deceleration driving may need friction plates with higher abrasion resistance and higher braking performance.
Brake sensitivity and comfort
The choice of friction plates can also be influenced by brake sensitivity and comfort, which needs to be considered. Some people prefer a more sensitive and direct brake feel, while others prefer a smoother, more comfortable brake feel.
Q: Is there any difference between friction discs and brake discs?
A: Yes, the two serve different functions. A brake disc generates the braking force to stop a vehicle, while a friction disc helps transfer energy between the engine and transmission system to propel the vehicle.
Q: What are the signs of a damaged friction disc?
A: Damaged friction discs can cause loud banging noises when driving. Some people will complain of distorted engine noises. Others will experience loss of power despite pressing the accelerator pedal. Some damage can be seen through the inspection when there are cracks in the friction discs.
Q: Can damaged friction discs cause problems in other parts?
A: Yes, damage to the friction disc may affect other parts like the clutch plate, pilot bearing, transmission shaft, engine parts, and flywheel. If not inspected or replaced on time, they can cause further damages that will be extremely costly to repair.