What are brake pads?

Brake pads, also known as brake linings, are key components in the braking systems of automobiles and other means of transportation.

I. Structure and Composition
Friction materials
This is the core part of the brake pad. It is generally composed of a mixture of various materials, such as ceramic fibers, semi-metals (such as steel fibers, etc.), and organic fibers (such as glass fibers, nylon fibers, etc.). Different friction materials have different performance characteristics. For instance, the ceramic fibers in ceramic brake pads have excellent high-temperature resistance. They can maintain a stable coefficient of friction during high-speed braking and are less prone to thermal fade. Semi-metallic brake pads, due to the presence of metal fibers, have stronger braking performance and faster heat dissipation, but they may produce some noise.

2. Adhesive
It is used to bond various fibers and particles in the friction material together to form the brake pad body with certain strength and shape. Commonly used binders include phenolic resin, etc. They cure under certain temperatures and pressures, enabling brake pads to withstand the pressure and friction during braking.

3. Back panel
The back plate of the brake pad is usually made of thin metal sheets. Its main function is to provide mechanical support for the brake pad, fix the brake pad on the brake caliper, and transmit braking force to the vehicle's suspension system or other related components during braking.

Ii. Working Principle
Friction braking
When the driver presses the brake pedal, through the transmission device of the braking system (such as the master cylinder, slave cylinder, etc.), the brake calipers will apply pressure to the brake pads, causing the brake pads to tightly grip the brake discs (for disc braking systems) or the brake drums (for drum braking systems). The frictional force between the brake pads and the brake discs/drums converts the vehicle's kinetic energy into thermal energy, thereby achieving deceleration and stopping of the vehicle.

Iii. Function and Importance
1. Safety guarantee
Brake pads are the direct actuating components of a vehicle's braking system, and their performance is directly related to the vehicle's braking effect and driving safety. If the brake pads wear out excessively or malfunction, it will lead to an extended braking distance or even braking failure, thereby causing traffic accidents.

2. Affect the driving experience
The performance of brake pads can also affect the driving experience. High-quality brake pads can provide smooth and sensitive braking force during braking, enabling drivers to better control the vehicle's speed and parking position. Poor-quality brake pads may have problems such as uneven braking, loud noise and shaking, which affect the comfort and handling of driving.