Brake pad and rotor technology What you need to know about formulations and legislation to help your customers By Mike Mavrigian
T
oday’s brake pad formulations continue to evolve, but the basics include organic, non-asbestos organic (NAO), semi-metallic and ceramic. Organic pads (even today, some aftermarket pads may still contain a degree of asbestos) contain less than 20% metallic content, so they’re easy on rotors, are
relatively quiet and perform best at lower temperatures. NAO pads are made using so-called organic materials such as fberglass, Kevlar and a host of other materials. Like organic pads, they’re relatively soft and quiet, but the wear rate is low and they create plenty of brake dust. They can include small levels of metals (copper, steel) to help with heat transfer.
24 | January/February 2014
