Ceramic Brake Pads Versus Asbestos Brake Pads
Historically all brake pad formulations were based on asbestos. Health concerns over exposure to asbestos, combined with increased brake-system performance standards, have caused a decline in the use of asbestos pads. Ceramic pads are a common, though more expensive, alternative.
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Wear Characteristics
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Ceramics are hard, with excellent wear resistance. Soft metals such as copper are frequently incorporated to soften the pads and brake feel without compromising wear resistance. Asbestos pads are softer and wear more quickly.
Heat Resistance
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Both pad types stand up well to high heat. Asbestos is an excellent insulator, meaning the heat generated in braking will accumulate in the linings and brake disc. This results in higher pad wear and increased maintenance. Ceramics pads are better at conducting heat generated in braking away from the disc.
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Braking Noise
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As asbestos linings are softer than ceramics, they are quieter. In addition to incorporating softer materials, ceramic linings often use soft shims on the outside of the pads in order to reduce braking noise to acceptable levels.
Braking Performance
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Braking places tremendous stress on the pads and results in the rapid generation of heat. Ceramics offer superior structural integrity and heat dissipation than asbestos pads. Under normal conditions, the performance difference will not be noticeable to most drivers.
Health Concerns
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Exposure to asbestos fibers is a contributing factor in development of asbestosis, mesothelioma (cancer) and other health issues. OSHA has issued safety guidelines for workers who might contact asbestos fiber-containing dust. Recent research indicates that dust from other brake-lining materials, particularly soft metals such as copper and antimony may also cause health problems but further research is needed to better define the risks.
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