Application of Cellulose Fiber in Brake Shoes Production
Cellulose Fiber has emerged as a material with unique potential in the production of brake shoes. It is integrated into brake shoes mixtures and mixes, significantly influencing the performance characteristics of brake shoes friction materials. Let’s explore its technical parameters, advantages, and disadvantages in detail.
Technical Parameters
- Tensile Strength: Cellulose Fiber generally has a tensile strength in the range of 100 – 200 MPa. Although this is lower compared to some high – performance fibers like Carbon Fiber, it still contributes to the overall mechanical integrity of the brake shoes. For example, in a standard braking situation where the brake shoes experience forces up to a certain level, the cellulose fiber can withstand these forces to an extent and maintain the structural stability of the friction material.
- Density: With a density of approximately 1.5 g/cm³, cellulose fiber is relatively lightweight. This density value is beneficial as it helps in reducing the overall weight of the brake shoes. When compared to some traditional metal – based components in brake systems, the use of cellulose fiber can lead to a noticeable reduction in the unsprung weight of the vehicle.
- Moisture Absorption: Cellulose Fiber has a moisture absorption capacity of around 6% – 10% under normal environmental conditions. This property can affect the performance of the brake shoes friction materials, especially in humid environments. It can slightly alter the friction coefficient and the mechanical properties of the mixture.
Advantages
- Cost – effectiveness: One of the most significant advantages of cellulose fiber in brake shoes production is its low cost. The raw materials for cellulose fiber, such as wood pulp or recycled paper, are abundant and inexpensive. The production cost of cellulose – fiber – based brake shoes is estimated to be 30% – 50% lower than those made with more expensive fibers like aramid. This cost – effectiveness makes it an attractive option for mass – market brake shoe manufacturing.
- Eco – friendliness: Cellulose Fiber is a renewable and biodegradable material. It is sourced from plant – based materials, which are sustainable resources. In contrast to some synthetic fibers that are derived from non – renewable petrochemicals, the use of cellulose fiber in brake shoes contributes to reducing the environmental impact of the automotive industry. For example, at the end – of – life of the brake shoes, the cellulose fiber components can decompose naturally, minimizing waste.
- Good Friction – Modulating Ability: In brake shoes friction materials, cellulose fiber can help in modulating the friction coefficient. Tests have shown that brake shoes with cellulose fiber can maintain a friction coefficient in the range of 0.3 – 0.5 under normal braking conditions, providing a stable and reliable braking force. This ability to maintain an appropriate friction coefficient is crucial for safe and efficient braking.
Disadvantages
- Low Heat Resistance: Cellulose Fiber has a relatively low heat resistance. When the temperature of the brake shoes rises above 200°C during heavy braking, the cellulose fiber may start to degrade. This degradation can lead to a reduction in the mechanical strength of the brake shoes friction materials and a decrease in the friction coefficient, resulting in brake fade. In high – performance braking scenarios where temperatures can quickly exceed this limit, cellulose fiber – based brake shoes may not be suitable.
- Moisture – Sensitivity: Due to its moisture absorption property, cellulose fiber can be affected by humidity. In high – humidity environments, the absorbed moisture can cause swelling of the fiber, which may change the dimensions and performance of the brake shoes. This can lead to inconsistent braking performance and potentially affect the safety of the vehicle.
In summary, cellulose fiber offers cost – effective and eco – friendly solutions for brake shoes production with good friction – modulating abilities. However, its limitations in heat resistance and moisture – sensitivity need to be carefully considered. Manufacturers must balance these factors according to the specific requirements of the brake shoes, such as the type of vehicle, braking conditions, and cost – benefit analysis.