Friction and wear characteristics of brake friction materials obtained from fiber and huntite blends

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper, brake friction material samples with six different contents were produced using three different fiber types consisting of variable proportions of huntite mineral and basalt, glass and steel fibers. The friction properties and formation of the transfer film in these friction materials were investigated. Design/methodology/approach Friction materials were produced using a hot molding method from materials containing 10%–15% huntite in varying proportions, consisting of basalt, glass and steel fibers. The densities and hardness values of the samples were measured. Friction tests were performed using a brake pad friction material tester to determine tribological properties. After the friction tests, microscopic examination of the sample surfaces was performed using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and three-dimensional (3D) surface profilometer devices. Findings Huntite mineral content and fiber type affected the friction coefficient. With an increase in the amount of huntite, the friction coefficient increased in the friction material samples formed with glass and steel fibers. The fiber type and amount of huntite also affected the transfer film formation. The surface roughness values of all the friction materials decreased with an increase in the amount of huntite. The surface roughness values of the samples with glass fibers were higher than those of other samples. Originality/value The importance of using huntite minerals and different fiber types in automotive brake friction materials is emphasized. This will help industrial companies and academics study the tribological properties of friction materials.