Our Research and Development is more than just friction material. To make the best friction material one must also have the best process. Our staff has over 25 years experience in compound formulation design as well as process design and are well versed in the pros and cons of existing processes. Through deliberation in a team environment, we have developed what we believe to be the most innovative & unique process for the manufacture of disc pads. Our disc pad molding tools are true positive dies, which maximize uniformity of compound densification. The resin binder is a fast cure system. And this is where we marry the process with the friction material compounding technology.
R&D activity is a consolidation of process and friction compound designs and where they both compliment one another. Our results have shown that our cost effective process increases the overall value of our parts without increasing the price.
Also, because of the activity consolidation, we are able to offer superior quality in:
- Ceramic Disc Pads
- Semi metallic Disc Pads
- Ceramic enhanced metallic brake shoes
Compound formulating is focused on the following key critical characteristics to ensure customer satisfaction:
- Noise - use of raw materials that have the ability to dampen vibration
- Elimination of brake dust contamination on wheels - selection of raw materials with the correct sizing and ability to reduce overall wear of the compound
- Brake effectiveness - correct choice of friction modifiers and lubricants that give consistent performance over a wide temperature range characterized by good pedal feel
- Lining life - choice of the right combination of ingredients that maximize lining life without adversely affecting other positive qualities
- Weather sensitivity - predictable and acceptable performance in harsh climate with out noise
- Reduction of brake dust contamination on wheels
- Match or exceed O.E. and competitor performance by performing comparison tests
- Rotor and drum compatible - evaluating rotor and drums during vehicle testing
- Process enhancements - Slotting, chamfering and shim attachment to disc pads to enhance noise and chatter abatement
Product development is completed by performing numerous tests using the following methods:
- In-house lab complete with two Chase friction testers that are used for product development and comparison testing
- Road testing - Short and long term testing is performed on company vehicles
- Equipping of employee vehicles for continuous evaluation on different vehicle platforms