How Are Carbon Ceramic Brakes Made?
The question of how carbon ceramic brakes are made is a bit loaded. On the one hand, some will tell you it’s all about the materials and the process by which they’re combined.
On the other, some will say that it’s all about the quality of the finished product.
So, what’s the answer? Well, it depends on who you ask. If you ask a materials scientist, they’ll tell you it’s all about the materials and the process by which they’re combined.
If you ask a brake manufacturer, they’ll tell you that it’s all about the quality of the finished product.
So, let’s take a closer look at both sides of the argument.
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What Are Carbon Ceramic Brakes?
These are a type of brake that uses a carbon-fiber-reinforced ceramic material for the discs.
The pads are also made of a ceramic compound. They also offer superior performance over traditional brakes, thanks to their lightweight, high strength, and resistance to wear.
While carbon ceramic brakes have been available on high-end cars for several years, they are now becoming more common on mainstream vehicles. Many automakers offer carbon ceramic brakes as an option on their performance models.
If you’re looking for better performance from your brakes, carbon ceramic brakes may be the way to go. But be prepared to pay a premium: they can cost up to three times as much as traditional brakes.
Benefits of Carbon Ceramic Brakes
Carbon ceramic brakes offer several advantages over traditional brakes. The most significant benefits include:
1. Superior Performance
Unlike traditional brakes, which use iron discs, carbon ceramic brakes use discs made of a lightweight, high-strength ceramic material.
This makes them much better at dissipating heat, meaning they won’t fade as quickly when subjected to hard braking.
Carbon ceramic brakes also have greater resistance to wear, meaning they’ll last longer and require less maintenance.
2. Reduced Weight
Another advantage of carbon ceramic brakes is that they’re much lighter than traditional brakes.
This is because the discs are made of ceramic, lighter than iron. The reduced weight can improve performance as it reduces unsprung mass.
3. Improved Safety
Carbon ceramic brakes also offer improved safety over traditional brakes. Their superior performance and resistance to wear make them less likely to fail in an emergency.
4. Enhanced Style
In addition to their performance advantages, carbon ceramic brakes also offer a unique style that can enhance the look of your car. The discs are typically finished with a glossy coating that makes them stand out from traditional brakes.
5. Increased Resale Value
Finally, because they’re such a desirable feature, carbon ceramic brakes can also help increase the resale value of your car.
If you’re looking for better performance from your brakes and don’t mind paying a premium, carbon ceramic brakes are a great option. Just do your research to ensure they’re compatible with your car before buying.
How Are Carbon Ceramic Brakes Made?
Carbon fiber and epoxy binders, along with silicon, are used to make carbon ceramic disc brakes.
- A steel mold is filled with this mix to create the discs. Steel inserts are inserted radially around the mold to allow for venting in the discs.
- A disc’s inner core is filled with epoxy-carbon paste, which is then pressed into the mold and baked to bond the epoxy and carbon fibers. The center of the disc is then treated with silicon.
- It’s then placed back into a furnace with all the oxygen removed, and the silicon dissolves. The hard silicon carbide is formed as a result of this.
- Diamond-coated grinding discs are used for a few post-production machining processes. The finished product is then given a final protective coating to prevent oxidation.
Carbon-carbon discs, for example, are a form of disc material still used in modern-day formula one cars.
Carbon fiber is sandwiched between two layers of graphite in these discs. Carbon ceramic discs have a variety of shapes and patterns, but the basic idea is the same.
If you were wondering how those sleek carbon ceramic brakes on your dream car were made, now you know. The manufacturing process is complex, but the finished product is worth it.
Final Thoughts
Carbon ceramic brakes are the pinnacle of brake technology. Offering superior performance, reduced weight, and enhanced style, they’re an excellent choice for anyone looking to get the most out of their car.
Do your research to ensure they’re compatible with your car before buying, and enjoy the benefits of that these brakes have to offer for years to come.
