What is the normal operating temperature of brake pads during vehicle driving?
2 Answers
Under normal conditions, the braking load is relatively balanced on both sides. Below is relevant information about brake pads: 1. Classification of brake pads: Asbestos brake pads (mostly phased out), semi-metallic brake pads, low-metallic brake pads, NAO formula brake pads, ceramic brake pads, NAO ceramic brake pads. 2. Ceramic brake pads vs traditional brake pads: In traditional brake pads, metal is the primary material generating friction, providing strong braking force but with significant wear and prone to noise. After installing ceramic brake pads, abnormal squealing (i.e., screeching sounds) does not occur during normal driving. Since ceramic brake pads do not contain metal components, they avoid the metallic screeching noise caused by friction between traditional metal brake pads and their counterparts (i.e., brake pads and brake discs). 3. Stable friction coefficient: Ordinary brake pads with immature friction materials may have excessively high friction coefficients, leading to unsafe factors such as loss of directional control during braking, pad burning, and brake disc scratching. Even when the brake disc temperature reaches 650 degrees, the friction coefficient of ceramic brake pads remains around 0.45-0.55, ensuring the vehicle maintains good braking performance.
As an automotive enthusiast, I often pay attention to the temperature of brake pads during normal driving. When the vehicle is moving at a constant speed without braking, the friction is minimal, and the temperature typically remains between 50 to 100 degrees Celsius, which is greatly influenced by ambient temperature. For example, on hot summer days, if the air temperature is high, the brake pads may approach 70°C, while in winter, they may drop below 30°C. Wind speed and vehicle speed are key factors; at high speeds, increased airflow provides better natural cooling, resulting in lower temperatures. I've tested driving continuously on the highway for an hour, and the brake pad temperature stayed below 80°C, which is very mild. This is far from the 400°C or more seen during emergency braking. If you drive smoothly and brake less frequently, the brake pads will last longer, and safety risks will be reduced. Overall, with proper temperature control during normal driving, there's no need to worry, but developing a habit of gentle braking is better for your car.