Material Characteristics and Performance Comparison
The friction lining material of brake shoes directly affects braking performance. Common types include:
Semi-metallic material: containing metal fibers and graphite, it has excellent heat dissipation and wear resistance, suitable for daily driving, but may produce noise.
Ceramic material: containing aramid fibers, it can withstand high temperatures (up to 650°C), has low noise and generates little dust, suitable for models that prioritize comfort.
Low-metallic material: has strong temperature control ability and low noise, often used in mid-to-high-end sedans.
NAO material: mainly composed of glass fibers and resin, it is environmentally friendly and causes less wear on brake drums, suitable for urban commuting vehicles.
Asbestos material has been phased out due to the release of harmful dust at high temperatures, while new materials such as high-carbon fibers (with 1.5 times the wear resistance of ceramics) have not yet been widely adopted due to high costs.
Maintenance and Replacement Standards
1. Inspection Cycle: Check the wear condition every 5,000 kilometers, including thickness, uniformity, and return flexibility. New brake pads are approximately 1.5 centimeters thick. Replace the front pads when they wear down to 2 millimeters and the rear pads when they wear down to 1.5 millimeters.
2. Key Points for Replacement:
- Use original factory parts to ensure matching friction coefficients and avoid abnormal braking sounds.
- Use special tools to push back the brake calipers to prevent damage to the guide screws.
- After replacement, depress the brake pedal several times to eliminate the clearance and drive for 200 kilometers to complete the break-in period.
3. Factors Affecting Lifespan: Frequent hard braking, mountainous road conditions, or heavy loads can accelerate wear, potentially shortening the replacement cycle to 50,000 kilometers; smooth driving can extend it to over 80,000 kilometers.
