Advantages of Refractory Ceramic Fibers in Friction Applications

This testing series was not meant to determine the effects of refractory ceramics fiber on friction applications, but was an introduction of the company to the friction industry as well as an opportunity for it to begin to build a knowledge base as a supplier of ceramic fiber to the friction industry. This study was first step towards obtaining the necessary information to become a qualified supplier to the automotive friction industry.

As more is learned about the effects of ceramic fiber on friction applications, it will become easier to provide the expertise and support to the brake pad manufacturers so that they may achieve there goals more rapidly. It is the intent of this company to continue an experimental program to learn the effects of fiber diameter, length, chemistry, and shot particle size distribution on friction materials. Ongoing programs investigating dispersability issues and fiber surface characteristics will provide opportunities to gain knowledge about the effects fiber during mixing and forming. As the friction industry moves into the next century, requiring new high tech materials to withstand higher temperatures and corrosive environments, without the loss of friction properties or an increase in detrimental effects to the rotors, refractory ceramic fiber will be recognized as a fiber of choice for braking applications.