Why do carbon ceramic brake discs not experience heat fade?
2 Answers
Because carbon ceramic brake discs have excellent heat resistance and heat dissipation, the braking system is less prone to heat fade due to overheating. Here is some information about the automotive braking system: 1. A car's braking system consists of a vacuum booster pump, master cylinder, wheel cylinder, brake disc, and brake pads. 2. The brake pads and brake disc rub against each other, converting kinetic energy into thermal energy, thereby slowing the car down. If the brake pads and brake disc become too hot, it can lead to a reduction in braking force. 3. Many performance cars use slotted or drilled brake discs, a design intended to improve the heat dissipation performance of the brake discs.
As someone who frequently tests braking systems, I've found that the key to carbon-ceramic brake discs not suffering from heat fade lies in the material itself. They use a carbon fiber-reinforced ceramic matrix that can withstand temperatures exceeding 1200°C without softening or deforming, whereas ordinary cast iron would have melted at this temperature. In laboratory continuous braking tests, the friction coefficient remained stable because they dissipate heat quickly, with thermal conductivity several times that of iron, preventing energy buildup that leads to performance degradation. Additionally, their lightweight nature reduces unsprung mass, enhancing vehicle handling, which is particularly noticeable during aggressive driving. Moreover, they have fewer oxidation issues and a lifespan exceeding 100,000 kilometers, making them more durable than traditional discs. These characteristics make them highly popular in supercars, but it's also important to ensure proper cooling ventilation after installation to prevent potential minor issues under extreme conditions.
