Fabrication and characterization of asbestos free epoxy based brake pads using carbon fiber as reinforcement

Abstract

In the fabrication of automotive vehicle brake linings, the usages of asbestos create an adverse reaction on humankind and the surroundings. Hence it led to the evolution of organic-based brake lining without using asbestos material. The various types of asbestos-free brake lining materials are developed to create new lining compositions providing effective performance. In our work, the effect of carbon fiber reinforced in brake linings are studied, and their friction performances are examined. The composition of carbon fiber contents are varied by 0%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10% by volume in the total weight of the mixture of brake composites and corresponding brake pads are fabricated. The various physical, mechanical and tribological analyses are performed. The experimental work results revealed that the sample with 10% of carbon content has high tensile strength, flexural strength, Rockwell hardness, and friction co-efficient. Also, the wear test showed a low value for the sample containing 10% of carbon content. The microstructural analysis revealed that the sample having 10% of carbon content has closure packing, which causes the strong bond formation of a matrix with carbon fiber filament.