Brake pads play a crucial role in a vehicle’s braking system, providing the stopping power needed to keep drivers safe on the road. Over the years, advancements in brake pad technology have led to significant improvements in performance, durability, and environmental impact. From better friction materials to reduced wear and emissions, these improvements have allowed techs to offer safer and longer-lasting braking solutions for their customers.
Asbestos Brake Pads
When brake pad technology was in its early stages, asbestos was the material of choice due to its heat resistance and durability. This material could withstand extreme temperatures generated during braking events without experiencing deterioration, making it a reliable option for vehicles at that point. Over time, research revealed serious health risks associated with exposure to asbestos, such as respiratory disease, and it became clear that a safer alternative was needed. In addition, environmental concerns started to emerge, which also played a role towards the development of an asbestos-free brake pad.
Semi-Metallic and Low Metallic Brake Pads
Asbestos-free alternatives like semi-metallic and low-metallic brake pads were introduced to address safety concerns while offering enhanced performance. These pads delivered improved heat dissipation and braking power, making them a preferred choice for techs and vehicle owners alike. While they did offer significant improvements, the increased metal content sometimes led to higher noise levels and greater rotor wear compared to the previous asbestos pads. Despite these factors, semi-metallic and low-metallic pads played a crucial role in advancing brake pad technology, offering a balance of performance and durability.
Introduction of Copper in Brake Pads
As brake pad technology continued to advance, manufacturers turned to copper to enhance the performance of semi-metallic and low-metallic brake pads. Copper’s superior heat dissipation and friction stability made it a valuable addition, improving braking power and reducing wear. It also helped alleviate some of the challenges that came with semi-metallic and low-metallic pads by improving durability and heat management. These improvements offered smoother and more consistent braking events. Despite the progress, the shift to copper also brought along new environmental concerns, as the copper runoff from worn pads was negatively impacting aquatic ecosystems. New regulations were introduced, limiting the amount of copper used in brake pads to reduce its environmental footprint.
Copper-Free Future
With growing concerns over the environmental impact of brake pads, the Better Brakes Law mandated a phased reduction in copper content. By 2021, manufacturers were required to lower copper levels to less than 5% by weight, with the final threshold set for 0.5% by 2025. To meet these stringent regulations without sacrificing braking performance, manufacturers turned to advanced ceramic and organic friction materials. Despite the challenges of maintaining heat dissipation and friction stability without copper, companies like ADVICS have successfully engineered copper-free brake pads. Through these advancements, they’ve optimized braking efficiency, wear resistance, and thermal management, ensuring reliable, ultra-premium solutions while adhering to environmental standards
