Effects of Surface Roughness of Brake Drums on Coefficient of Friction and Lining Wear

The effects of surface roughness of brake drums on coefficient of friction (brake torque) and lining wear were investigated using typical commercial grey cast iron drums and typical commercial linings. Sample and inertia dynamometers were used. The surface roughness is found to significantly affect the coefficient of friction (brake torque) and lining wear, though the effect is dependent upon the lining compositions. The significance and implications of these findings are discussed.