Types of Brake Pads
Sintered Metal Brake Pads
Sintered materials and organic materials are the two types of brake system we often use. sintered materials has the advantage of powerful braking, heating, underwater, mud / dust use, and cold reactivity.
Sintered metal brake pads are made of by more than 10 kinds of powders mixed together(Such as zinc ,iron, Bronze, ceramics, graphite).These ingredients are then mixed altogether to form its final shapes. After that, it is then heated in a 900+°C oven.
Organic Brake Pads,
It is also called non-asbestos organic brake pads. They are made from natural materials like glass and rubber, as well as resins that can withstand high heat. Kevlar is also an important component in many organic brake pads.
The advantages of organic brake pads include that they are environmental friendly because they are made from natural ingredients; they are quieter because they are made from soft materials;
The downside of organic brake pads include: because they're softer, they typically wear faster; It’s not heat conductive, the brake power decrease as the heat increase; Comparing with other types of brake pads, the brake effect is not strong for heavy duty vehicles.
Semi-metallic Brake pads
Pros:
o Relatively speaking, they are less expensive than the comparable ceramic brake pads.
o They are more aggressive with better bite than ceramic brake pads.
o They are available in heavier duty towing formulations, for trucks and SUV’s.
o When coupled with Drilled and Slotted Rotors they help pull heat away from the center of the braking system
Cons:
o Due to their formulation they tend to generate more black dust.
o They are more abrasive than ceramic and could possibly wear through your brakes faster.
o They can be louder than ceramic brake pads.
Ceramic brake pads
Pros:
o They dissipate heat better for non-drilled and slotted brake rotors, which creates less brake fade.
o They tend to be quieter than metallic brake pads.
o They are less abrasive, and therefore and a little easier on brake rotors.
o The dust created is lighter in color, and gives the appearance of less dust.
Cons:
o They are relatively more expensive than the comparable metallic brake pads.
o They are not as aggressive as metallic brake pads, and therefore have a lighter stopping power.
o They are not recommended for track driving or for use in heavier vehicles like SUV’s and trucks. Especially when used for towing purposes.