Effect of graphitization percentage on fade and recovery performance of copper-free non-asbestos organic brake pads

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to deal with the tribological study on the brake pads developed using various purity-based graphitized graphite. Design/methodology/approach This paper deals with developing copper-free brake pads by using graphite as a key lubricant produced using a graphitization process with purity percentages (85, 90 and 95%). The brake pads were developed using traditional manufacturing processes and evaluated for their physical, chemical, thermal and mechanical properties as per industrial standards. Fade and recovery characteristics were analyzed using a full-scale inertia brake dynamometer as per JASO-C-406. The scanning electron microscope was used to analyze the worn surfaces of the brake pads. Findings The testing findings reveal that the brake pads with 95% graphitized graphite showed better shear strength with good adhesion levels and lesser density, hardness, acetone extract value, loss on ignition and higher porosity. Effectiveness studies of brake pads with graphite (95% graphitized) showed better results at higher pressure speed conditions than others because of better plateau formation and adequate lubrication. Originality/value This paper discusses graphitized graphite of different purity influences brake pad's tribological performance by modifying tribo-films and reducing friction undulations.