Wet friction disc

Types of wet friction discs

Wet friction discs are crucial parts of a drivetrain. They work by offering resistance to driving power and assisting in changing gears. There are many types of wet friction discs that keep vehicles running smoothly.

• Ceramic Wet Friction Discs: These discs are made up of ceramic materials. They perform well in high temperatures and are known to resist wear and tear. Many machinery industries use them for heavy or high performance vehicles. This is because they can achieve high mileage before wearing out. However, their initial cost can be high compared to other types.
• Organic Wet Friction Discs: As the name suggests, organic wet friction discs are made of natural materials. For example, rubber, leather, and cotton can be used to make organic wet friction discs. Such materials are gathered together and form a thick layer that works well as a wet friction disc. Compared to ceramic wet friction discs, organic ones perform better in cold weather. This is because they heat up quickly after starting the vehicle. However, they tend to wear out faster, especially in high temperatures, and need frequent replacement.
• Semi-metallic Wet Friction Discs: These are a balance of organic and metallic materials. Semi-metallic wet friction discs are more durable than organic discs, achieving a good mileage before wear. They handle temperature fluctuations well but might need more upkeep than ceramic discs. Those qualities have made them suitable for use in sports cars and high-end cars. Additionally, semi-metallic wet friction discs avoid issues with cold climate organic discs and overheating metal ones.

Specifications and Maintenance

Wet friction discs are made according to specific heavy machinery and vehicles needs. Some general specifications are as follows:

• Size: The diameter and thickness of a wet disc can vary. Usually, its diameter is between 300mm and 600mm, and the thickness is around 6-15mm.
• Material: Most wet friction discs are made of composite material (resin, rubber, and other polymer compounds) or metal . The other metal is usually copper or brass. Their textures, thermal conductivity, and wear resistance are different, which makes the features of the wet friction discs distinct. The choice of materials affects the friction discs' durability, thermal conductivity, and stability.
• Centred Hole size: The centred hole size is where the wet friction disc connects to the machine or vehicle. The centred hole size is essential for a precise fit inside a specific piece of equipment.

Some tips for wet friction discs maintenance ensure the long-lasting use of them:

• Regular Cleaning: Wipe off any residue or debris with a clean, lint-free cloth to keep them clean.
• Avoid Contamination: Keep the wet friction disc away from substances that might damage them, like strong solvents or chemicals.
• Lubrication Maintenance: If applicable, ensure adequate lubrication and cleanliness at the contact part of the wet friction disc and the transmission component.
• Regular Inspection: Check the wet friction disc periodically to see if there is any unusual phenomenon like wobbling or sliding that might need to be repaired or replaced.
• Avoid Overheating: Try to avoid overheating. If the temperature is too high, it can change the properties of the wet friction disc, subsequently resulting in its degradation and damage.

Scenarios

Wet friction discs are primarily used in industries that use hydraulic power as part of their operations. Here are some of the most common usage scenarios of wet friction discs:

• Heavy-duty transport vehicles

  Wet friction discs are used in the manufacture of clutch packs of heavy-duty transport vehicles such as buses and trucks. Such vehicles use hydraulic power to assist their transmission systems. This allows them to smoothly manage massive weights and diverse driving situations. In this case, wet friction discs provide a reliable and long-lasting clutch operation for saturated hydraulic transmissions.

• Off-road vehicles and equipment

  Wet friction discs are used for driving and power transmitting parts of some off-road vehicles like all-terrain automobiles (ATVs) and gear-shifting components of hydraulic-powered outdoor equipment such as tractors, skid loaders, and compacting machines. The outdoor work environment of such machines exposes them to dust and debris. Wet discs offer a durable and dependable connection that can withstand off-road challenges and hydraulic pressure.

• Marine and automotive industry

  The marine industry uses wet friction discs in the clutch and gearbox of hydraulic transmission systems to power and control boats, ships, and water sports engines. Similarly, the wet friction discs find applications in some automobiles, especially those with hydraulic automatic transmission systems. They function as clutch elements within the transmission to smoothly shift gears and regulate engine power flowing to the wheels.

• Industrial machinery and automated systems

  Wet friction discs are employed in automated gear-shifting systems of industrial machines like CNC equipment and fish processing machines. Such machines produce high torque and must work efficiently. Wet discs serve as reliable torque transmission components within hydraulic motors and brakes. They provide consistent braking force and control for precision motion management.

How to Choose Wet Friction Discs

Wet discs are not the same as dry discs; hence, apart from compatibility, the machine's braking system need is another key factor when choosing a wet friction disc. Following the manufacturer's guidelines can help determine what specific requirements the braking system of the machinery or vehicle has. With this, customers can choose a wet friction braking disc that fulfills their needs. To go further, buyers are now required to choose a wet friction braking disc that meets the technical needs of their machines or vehicles. They should carefully consider the dimensions, performance characteristics, and material composition of the discs to ensure a proper fit and optimal braking performance.

When looking at the performance of the wet friction braking discs, make sure to consider the load capacity and heat dissipation capabilities. This ensures it can handle the demands of the application appropriately. The material composition of the disc determines its durability and resistance to wear. Customers should choose a wet friction braking disc with a material that is compatible with their machine or vehicle to ensure a proper fit and optimal performance. Avoid the situation where the material of the disc interferes with the functioning of the braking system.

Finally, machinery or vehicle owners should consider the installation process before purchasing a wet friction disc. Some friction discs are easier to install than others, requiring the aid of professional assistance. When users can quickly set up their braking system components independently, it contributes to a seamless, smooth, and efficient machinery maintenance process. Overall, regardless of the type of product, it is always important to choose a reliable supplier who prioritizes quality.

Wet friction disc Q&A

Q1: How does a wet disc brake work?

A1: In a wet braking system, pads bearing the vehicle's weight will apply pressure to the discs to slow it down. When this process occurs, the friction will generate some heat, but because the brake pads' surface is wet, this excess heat will be reduced.

Q2: What is the difference between a wet and dry disc brake?

A2: Unlike a wet disc brake that utilizes liquid to keep the surfaces cool, a dry brake disc simply uses air. Both systems have their pros and cons, as a dry friction disc will stop a vehicle faster but is more prone to wear and tear. On the contrary, a wet system is more durable but may have a delayed response to stopping the vehicle.

Q3: What are some common applications of wet disc brakes?

A3: Wet brake discs are commonly used in vehicles that experience a high volume of stopping or those exposed to harsh environments. This includes agricultural equipment, marine vehicles, buses, excavators, and loaders.

Q4: How is a wet disc brake different from a drum brake?

A4: Wet friction discs and drum brakes function quite similarly, as both surfaces try to stop the rotating wheel. However, while the disc brake uses a circular piece set perpendicular to the caliper, a drum brake has a hollow piece set parallel to the brake pads. Manufacturers often prefer the disc braking system because it's easier to disperse heat. Another big payoff is that users can quickly examine the pieces and determine what needs to be replaced.