Application of Big Flake Graphite in Brake Shoes Production
In the manufacturing of brake shoes, the application of Big Flake Graphite has become a topic of great interest due to its significant impact on the performance of brake shoes friction materials. This graphite is an integral part of brake shoes mixtures and mixes, playing a crucial role in determining the quality and functionality of brake shoes.
Technical Parameters
- Particle Size：The particle size of Big Flake Graphite used in brake shoes production generally ranges from 80 – 400 microns. For example, a 150 – micron particle size is often preferred in some brake shoes mixes as it provides an optimal balance between friction – modulation and material flow during the manufacturing process. This specific size range allows the graphite flakes to distribute evenly within the brake shoes mixture, enhancing the overall performance of the friction materials.
- Lubricity Index：Big Flake Graphite has a high lubricity index. Measured on a scale of 1 – 10, with 10 being the highest, it typically scores around 8. This high lubricity is essential for reducing the friction between the brake shoes and the brake disc during operation, which in turn helps to prevent excessive wear and heat generation.
Advantages
- Enhanced Friction Performance：When added to brake shoes friction materials, Big Flake Graphite can improve the friction coefficient. In laboratory tests, brake shoes with Big Flake Graphite showed an average friction coefficient increase of 0.05 – 0.1 compared to those without it. This increase in friction coefficient leads to more efficient braking, reducing the braking distance by approximately 10% in normal driving conditions.
- Reduced Wear and Tear：The self – lubricating property of Big Flake Graphite significantly reduces the wear rate of brake shoes. According to field – test data, brake shoes with Big Flake Graphite experience 35% less wear over a 50,000 – kilometer driving distance compared to traditional brake shoes. This not only extends the service life of the brake shoes but also reduces maintenance costs for vehicle owners.
- Improved Heat Resistance：Big Flake Graphite has excellent heat – dissipation capabilities. In high – speed braking scenarios, brake shoes with Big Flake Graphite can maintain their performance even when the temperature reaches up to 400°C, while traditional brake shoes may start to experience brake fade at around 300°C. This improved heat resistance ensures reliable braking performance under extreme conditions.
Disadvantages
- Cost – Effectiveness：Big Flake Graphite is relatively expensive compared to other additives used in brake shoes production. The cost of high – quality Big Flake Graphite can be 3 – 5 times higher than common friction – enhancing materials. This cost factor can significantly increase the production cost of brake shoes, especially for mass – production manufacturers.
- Processing Complexity：Due to its large flake structure, Big Flake Graphite is difficult to disperse uniformly in the brake shoes mixture. Without proper processing techniques, about 15% of the produced brake shoes may have inconsistent graphite distribution, which can lead to uneven braking performance and potentially safety issues. Specialized mixing equipment and longer mixing times are required to address this problem, adding to the production complexity and cost.
In conclusion, while Big Flake Graphite offers remarkable advantages in enhancing the performance of brake shoes, its high cost and processing challenges need to be carefully considered by manufacturers. A comprehensive evaluation of these factors is crucial for making informed decisions in the application of Big Flake Graphite in brake shoes production.