How to choose brake discs?
When choosing brake discs, the following aspects need to be considered:
I. Type
Solid brake disc
It has a simple structure and is made of a single piece of metal. This type of brake disc has relatively poor heat dissipation performance, but it can be used in some vehicles with low-intensity braking requirements, such as the original brake discs of some small family cars, and its price is usually relatively low.
2. Ventilated brake discs
There are ventilation channels inside the disk, which can effectively improve the heat dissipation efficiency. It can maintain good braking performance during continuous braking or high-intensity braking and is less likely to experience thermal fade. Most mid-to-high-end sedans and performance cars use ventilated brake discs, but their manufacturing cost is relatively high and the price is also relatively expensive.
3. Perforated brake discs
Drilling holes on the surface of the brake disc not only has a heat dissipation function but also can reduce brake dust to a certain extent. However, punching holes can reduce the strength of brake discs, and it has high requirements for manufacturing processes. Moreover, too many holes may affect the durability of brake discs. It is often used in some models that pursue high performance and appearance effects.
4. Mark the brake disc
The surface of the brake disc is marked with lines, which function similarly to perforated brake discs. They help dissipate heat and remove dust, water and other impurities, enhancing braking performance while reducing brake dust. This is a relatively common choice that balances performance and durability.
Ii. Dimensions
1. Compatible with vehicles
The size of the brake disc must match the vehicle's wheel hub and braking system. There are strict regulations on the size of brake discs for different vehicle models. Generally, the appropriate size of brake discs can be determined by the vehicle model or by consulting the car manufacturer. If the dimensions do not match, it may cause the brake calipers to fail to work properly or interfere with components such as the wheel hub and tires after installation.
Iii. Materials
Gray cast iron
It is the most common material for brake discs, featuring excellent wear resistance and thermal stability, with a relatively low cost, and is widely used in various types of automobiles. However, it is relatively heavy and may experience thermal fade under extreme conditions.
2. Carbon ceramic composites
This type of brake disc made of this material is lightweight, has excellent heat dissipation performance and outstanding braking performance, and can maintain stable braking effect under high-speed and high-intensity braking conditions. However, its manufacturing cost is high and it is mainly applied to high-end models such as high-performance sports cars and racing cars.
Iv. Brand and Quality
1. Well-known brand
Choosing brake discs from well-known brands usually ensures quality and performance. For instance, Brembo is a well-known brand of braking systems. The brake discs it produces perform outstandingly in terms of braking performance and durability, and are favored by many high-performance car and modification enthusiasts. Brands such as AP Racing are also renowned for their high-quality brake products.
2. User reviews and quality certification
You can view other users' evaluations of this brand's brake discs to understand their performance in actual use, such as braking effect, durability, and whether they are prone to generating noise, etc. At the same time, it is also necessary to pay attention to whether the brake discs have relevant quality certifications, such as ISO quality certification, etc., which can reflect the quality reliability of the product to a certain extent.
