In the automotive braking system, brake pads are one of the core components, and their performance directly affects driving safety. The appearance features of brake pads often reflect their materials, processes and applicable scenarios. Understanding these features will help buyers and end users choose the right products more accurately.
1. Overall shape and size of brake pads
The appearance of brake pads is first reflected in their shape and size. Different models and braking systems have different requirements for the size of brake pads, so brake pads are usually customized according to original specifications. Common brake pad shapes include rectangular, curved or irregular shapes, and the edges may have chamfers or rounded designs to reduce friction resistance during installation. In addition, the thickness of the brake pad is also an important indicator. The thickness of a new pad is usually between 10-15 mm, and it will gradually wear out with use.
2. Color and texture of friction material
The friction material of the brake pad is its core part. The appearance can be preliminarily judged by its color and texture. Organic brake pads are usually dark gray or black with a smooth surface; semi-metallic brake pads may have metal fibers, grayish white in color, and fine metal particles can be seen on the surface; ceramic brake pads are mostly gray-black with fine and uniform surface texture. These characteristics not only affect the wear resistance and heat dissipation of brake pads, but also determine the driving environment in which they are applicable.
3. Back plate and silencer structure
The back plate of the brake pad is the part that fixes the friction material. It is usually made of steel, and the surface is rust-proof and silver-gray. High-quality brake pads have a smooth back plate without burrs to ensure a tight fit with the brake caliper. In addition, many modern brake pads will design silencer structures on the back plate or friction material, such as grooves or shock-absorbing pads. These details help reduce braking noise and improve driving comfort.
4. Edge treatment and marking
The edge treatment process of the brake pad can also reflect its manufacturing level. The edges of high-quality brake pads are usually smooth and burr-free to prevent scratches on the brake disc during installation. Some brake pads will also have the model, production batch or certification mark printed on the side for easy traceability and quality control.
By observing the appearance of the brake pad, buyers can make a preliminary judgment on its quality and applicability. In actual selection, it is also necessary to combine the specific vehicle model and driving requirements to ensure that the brake pad performance matches the vehicle, thereby ensuring driving safety.
