Health / Advertising Feature

What’s stopping you? The evolution and innovations of car brake discs

By Advertising Feature  Wednesday Nov 29, 2023

New trends in technology, sustainability, and consumer preferences are constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation in the automotive industry. And in this fast-paced world of automotive innovation, every gear change is evidence of progress.  The braking system, which is responsible for stopping the vehicle, is not overlooked.

A modest but very important element
One of the main components of the braking system is the brake disc. It is a flat, round metal disc attached to the wheel hub.

The main function of the brake disc is to work with the brake pads to slow or stop the car when the driver applies the brake. The brake disc, a part that has silently evolved over the years, plays an important role in keeping us safe on the road.

And, as the wheels of progress are constantly turning in the automotive world, let’s take a moment to look back at the history of automotive brakes and the innovations that have shaped the evolution of brake discs.

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From the history of the automotive industry
At the dawn of the automotive industry, stopping a vehicle was a risky endeavour. The braking systems of the first cars relied on external tie bands or primitive shoe-to-drum type mechanisms. As cars became faster and more common, there was a need for a more efficient and reliable braking system.

The first true automotive braking system appeared in the early 20th century with the advent of mechanical drum brakes. Disc brakes were also patented at that time, but they did not gain acceptance at that time. Although drum brakes were improved, their shortcomings, such as heat dissipation problems and uneven braking, were the basis for further innovations. And in the 1950s, disc brakes were revived again. Unlike drum brakes, which were prone to overheating, disc brakes offered superior heat dissipation and consistent performance due to their open design.

From iron to carbon composite
The first brake discs were made primarily from cast iron, a strong but heavy material. However, as materials science has evolved, so have brake discs. Aluminium and composite materials came on the scene, offering a lightweight alternative without sacrificing strength. This transition not only improved braking performance, but also paved the way for the high-performance braking systems we see on today’s sports and luxury cars.

Another milestone in brake disc innovation has been the widespread adoption of carbon-ceramic composites. These latest materials combine the strength of carbon fibre with the heat resistance of ceramic, resulting in a brake disc that is not only significantly lighter than its predecessors, but also able to withstand extreme temperatures.

Carbon ceramic brake discs have become synonymous with high-performance vehicles. These advances have migrated from the racetrack to production cars, reflecting the quest for safety and efficiency throughout the automotive sector.

Sleek and efficient design
Today’s standard brake disc is characterised by a sleek and minimalist design. Modern brake discs are usually made from cast iron, composite materials or carbon ceramic composites, making them more efficient and safer. To dissipate the heat generated during braking, ventilation slots or holes are provided on the disc surface to prevent overheating and ensure stable performance in various driving conditions.

How brake discs work
Understanding how brake discs work provides a deeper understanding of their importance. When the driver applies the brake, the brake pads press against the rotating disc, creating friction. The friction converts kinetic energy into thermal energy, slowing the vehicle down.

Smart discs 
Brake disc technology has undergone significant changes in recent years. One such change is the development of “smart” brake discs. These discs are equipped with sensors that monitor various parameters such as temperature and wear. This real-time data allows for more precise control of the braking system, increasing its safety and durability.

The history of automotive brakes and the evolution of brake discs demonstrates the automotive industry’s relentless pursuit of safety and efficiency. From humble drum brakes to the wonders of lightweight carbon-ceramic composite, each innovation has left an indelible mark on how we stop our vehicles. As we look to the future of automotive brakes and brake discs, we wonder not only how the car stops, but how it continues to evolve in the never-ending quest for safer and more efficient transport.

Sources of information for the article:

A brief look at brake discs functions – buycarparts.co.uk

Brake System Evolution – gregmonforton.com

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