Niobium Alloyed Ferritic Nitrocarburized Brake Rotors

Niobium (Nb) alloyed Grey cast iron in combination with Ferritic Nitrocarburize (FNC) case hardening heat treatment is proposed to improve wear resistance and reduce brake dust generation of brake rotors. Standard Eutectic and Hypereutectic Grey irons alloyed with Niobium were evaluated in comparison to baseline unalloyed compositions. Brake speed snub sensitivity tribological testing was performed on a matrix including Niobium alloyed, Unalloyed, FNC, Non FNC, Non-Asbestos Organic (NAO) friction and Low metallic (Low Met) friction materials. Full size brake rotors were evaluated by Block Wear and Corrosion Cleanability.

Improved wear, corrosion resistance and reduced brake dust debris were demonstrated by the Niobium alloyed FNC brake rotor combinations. Corrosion is an important consideration when evaluating brake performance. Combining cyclic corrosion and brake rotor testing provides the best comparison with field exposure.