What are Brake Pads – Meaning, Types and How They Work

Brake pads are the principal component of the braking system in an automobile. They play a vital part in stopping or slowing down your car as soon as you push the brake pedal. They are fixed in the calliper on the brake disc, usually on all four wheels of a car. Now, if you are wondering what brake pads are, keep reading.

A brake pad refers to a piece of friction-generating material that pushes itself on to the rotor or disc of your car, thereby enabling it to slow down and stop. They are manufactured from steel with heavy friction material on one side. Therefore as you push the brake, the brake pads squeeze the brake disc, thereby slowing down the car or stopping it.

In 1899, German engineer Gottlieb Daimler first introduced the concept of brakes. According to his theory and research, if a drum wrapped with cable was fixed to the chassis of a vehicle, it would effectively stop the vehicle’s motion. Louis Renault took this idea and built the first mechanical drum brake in 1902.

In addition, brake linings, a material bonded with brake pad, were invented by Bertha Benz, during her first long-distance world tour by car in 1888. Herbert Frood established the first asbestos brake lining in 1908.

Further, in 1918, Malcolm Loughead came up with the idea of a four-wheel brake system by applying hydraulics. This system takes fluids to transmit force into the brake shoe just after you press the pedal. This braking system soon became very popular by the end of 1920.

However, to compensate for the increase of engine power and vehicle weight, the famous British engineer Frederick W. Lanchester, invented disc brake. For this invention he got a patent in the year 1902 even though it took more than a decade for disc brakes to popularise.

When you push the brake pedal, the piston hits the calliper. Hydraulic fluid in the calliper pushes brake pads towards the brake disc. Thus, the friction between pads and rotor reduces the vehicle's speed. The following steps will enable you to understand how disc brakes work:

• When you push the brake pedal, a cylinder gets activated and sends brake fluid via hoses towards the callipers.
• The callipers focus on engaging your brake pads.
• The brake pads put pressure on the rotor that is connected with every wheel.
• This pressure generates friction that slows your vehicle down. With the rotor's slowing down, the wheels' speed also gets reduced.
• When you remove your foot from the brake pedal, the brake fluid will go back to the hoses, and the car will start to move again.

Since you have got the answer of the question what brake pads are, let us move into the types of brake pads. In general, there are four types of brake pads available. They are as follows:

1. Semi-Metallic

Generally, most brake pads are semi-metallic with 30% to 70% metal such as copper, wood, steel, and wire material. These brake pads are popular for being budget-friendly and efficient. Furthermore, they are sturdy, heat resistant, and more effective than the other variants. Moreover, these brake pads are ideal for high-performance vehicles due to their prompt response.

2. Ceramic

Ceramic brake pads are usually more expensive than semi-metallic pads and they are famous for their efficient braking and heat absorption. Moreover, in comparison with other type of brake pads, they are cleaner and generate low noise. In addition, ceramic brake pads have better longevity in comparison with semi-metallic pads.

3. Low-Metallic, Non-Asbestos Organic (NAO)

The low-metallic NAO option is made with a combination of 10% to 30% steel or copper. It provides better breaking alongside the transfer of heat. Although these brake pads are somewhat noisy, they prevent dust accumulation, so that it cannot lead to a frozen calliper.

4. Non-Asbestos Organic

Non-asbestos brake pads are manufactured from organic resources and thus are softer and comparatively less noisy. The latest versions offer rubber and fibreglass options too. Although these pads are beneficial for the brake discs, they wear out quickly. Thus, it is not so helpful for off-road driving.

While you are travelling by car, its wheels rotate very fast. This is why the brake pads get worn out due to intense friction with the brake disc. This leads to inefficient braking performance and a longer stopping time for the vehicle. Moreover, the speed at which a brake disc rotates affects the brake pads too.

While you apply such immense pressure on the braking system, it reduces longevity of the brake parts. Under such circumstances, you need to replace the brake pads.

Since the brake pads are made of metal, they start to make noise once the brake pad begins to damage after constant wear and tear. Therefore, servicing is mandatory to retain your vehicle's good performance.

Now, you have a clear idea about what brake pads are. Consequently, it is essential to keep it in proper working condition so that you can enjoy a stable driving experience while hitting the road. However, if you notice any warning signs of your car's brake pads wearing out, you should immediately contact experts for professional assistance.