Brake Pads

Brake pads are blocks of rubber-like friction material secured to metal plates. They are fastened to the end of the brake caliper. When brakes are applied, they pressed against the brake disc or rotor and help the wheel stop. They are also known as "brake block."

Types of Brake Pads
There are three basic types of brake pads:

• Organic: They are the most common type of brake pad for regular use.
• Semi-metallic: They are meant for heavy use.
• Full-race: They can endure high-heat and heavy-duty service. They are not meant for regular use and work best when they are hot.

Materials used for making Brake Pads
Generally, brake pads are made from asbestos fiber. But now, because of their bad effect on health, their use is limited. Some of the most commonly used materials used for making brake pads are:

• Asbestos
• Carbon
• Kevlar
• Copper
• Brass
• Steel wool
• Platinum
• Titanium
• Ceramic
• Ferro Carbon

Maintenance of Brake Pads
For a better performance of the brake system, it is necessary to take care of the brake pads and check them regularly.

• Foreign objects from the surface of the brake pads should be removed. The braking performance will be better if the brake pads are clean.
• The extra or wild ridges of the brake pads can be cut off with a knife and then flatten by using a sand paper or a filer.
• They should be replaced before they are too worn out. They should contact the rim evenly. There should be no squeak when brakes are applied.