Development of New Friction Material for Heavy Duty Application

Studies into a material to improve the power density of powershift transmissions and brake systems have revealed that the porosity and elasticity of wet friction materials have a large influence on dynamic friction coefficient and energy absorption capacity. From this basic idea, a new wet friction material for heavy-duty application has been developed.

This friction material is a resin molding composed principally of high heat-resistant resin, graphite and fibers. Its advantages include a far higher energy absorption capacity than current sintered bronze material, a high friction coefficient, excellent slip endurance, and high thermal stability. These characteristics are mainly the result of a manufacturing method which provides low elasticity and high porosity, as well as necessary strength.

The results of extensive testing confirmed the concept of the new friction material.