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Drum or disc - that is the question

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Keeping vehicles on the road and not unnecessarily in the workshop is key to a successful operation. Thats why, when developing its braking systems, BPW has invested heavily. The result is high-performance, low-maintenance equipment designed to keep downtime to an absolute minimum and customers vehicles on the road for longer. 

Trailer and tractor compatibility, as well as a vehicles working environment, are critical factors to performance and should be considered when selecting the brake for your operation. Here are some pointers to help you make the right decision. But remember, if youre debating whether to go drum or disc, there is no clear, black-and-white answer. Everyone has his or her opinion. Weve highlighted some key points so you are better informed when making that decision. 

COST: Cost is a major factor when buying and in most cases, it is one of the first considerations in deciding whether to fit drum or disc brakes. As well as the purchase price, you should consider the cost of replacement parts, maintenance costs, and labour time, i.e., long-term cost-effectiveness. 

While a disc brake has fewer replaceable components than a drum brake, the initial cost of purchasing a disc brake set-up is on average higher. The long-term advantage is that with modular components, there is less to replace, therefore servicing time is reduced. The cost of replacing modular parts for a disc brake is much higher when compared with a drum equivalent, with the calliper and disc accounting for the large majority of the cost. 

When comparing the BPW standard times for replacing equivalent components, the difference is negligible, and, of course, the standard times are just a guide. Experience would be the deciding factor when comparing the labour time to change components. 

As a result of the higher cost of disc brake components, the drum brake residual value is deemed higher, particularly when fitted with BPW axles. At the end of the trailers useful life, the owner may wish to sell it, and with the market favouring drum brakes, this will be easier. Another purchasing consideration when buying used trailers is the cost to renew components that have had a long service life, and, as mentioned previously, drum brake components cost less to replace.

OPERATIONALLY: Choosing the right brake is dependent on the day-to-day operation of the trailer. The disc brake has better braking efficiency at higher temperatures and is less likely to be subjected to brake fade issues. This is because as the disc increases in temperature, it expands toward the pads. When the drum becomes excessively hot, it expands away from the shoes and on rare occasions, can expand to the point where, no matter how far you press the brake pedal, the shoe will not make good enough contact with the drum to stop the vehicle in time. However, with the fitment of retarders/exhaust brakes, this issue is very rare in the UK. 

The disc brake set-up is fairly exposed to the elements, and dirt, grime, and water ingress from the road surface will have a bearing on braking efficiency and the maintenance intervals required. If a disc brake is used on muddy roads or tracks, the vent holes on the disc rotor can become blocked, causing the disc to become hotter much quicker and for longer periods of time. Drum brakes, on the other hand, are better protected from outside elements, blocking the majority of moisture and dirt, which is why they are a preferred choice when it comes to certain applications such as forestry and site work. 

If a trailer is part of a rental fleet and is underutilised, its not uncommon for the brake disc to become rusty. This is because a trailer can be stored for periods waiting to be leased, therefore, out-of-use maintenance is required to ensure the integrity of the disc and pads are not compromised, whereas for drums this is not an issue. Also, when leasing trailers, the make and model of the towing vehicle will vary, and discs are more sensitive than drums when it comes to the issue of trailer and tractor combinations. 

Most modern tractor units have Coupling Force Control (CFC) integrated into the EBS system. This is designed to give the optimum braking performance and compatibility between the tractor and trailer. From our experience and research, the CFC tends to be more sensitive, and in some cases, the trailer was found to take on more of the braking load than the tractor unit. This can result in the brakes running hotter and the discs and pads wearing out more quickly. The drum brakes operating temperatures are also considerably lower, and this results in less thermal loading upon adjacent components such as tyres, camshafts, hubs, and hub bearings. 

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MAINTENANCE COMPARISON: Brake shoes are sometimes sent for relining at the end of their lining life, which can bring down the cost of replacing the friction material in brakes. A disadvantage of sending the shoes away is that you may not receive the same shoes back. It is advisable to mark your own shoes so you know the ones you send are the ones returned, not someone elses heavily aged shoe with no prior knowledge of its historical workload. Increasingly, operators fit new shoes with long-term operational reliability and economy for continued safety and longevity.

It is very simple to replace the pads on disc brakes and the back plate can be disposed of accordingly. The disc brake is much easier to configure during initial set-up and also after maintenance periods and pad renewals. There are more step and component checks on the drum brake when refitting new shoes compared to the disc.

SUMMARY: It has been highlighted that the disc brake is the more expensive option, both in terms of the initial purchase and the cost of replacement parts, yet it requires less maintenance if the brakes are used regularly. However, the drum brake has proven to be more resilient as it is better protected from the outside elements, and the life of the shoes and drum seems to extend beyond that of the disc and pads. While drum brake components cost less, remember there are more components to replace. 

Ultimately, it depends on the conditions the brakes will be subjected to and the workload encountered. There is no definitive answer when asking which brake setup to use, and opinions will always be divided.

**END**

If you want to learn more, please visit our website BPW Brake Pads manufacturer.

16th January

For further press information, contact Rebecca Wesley, Emma Makings-Hone or

Sandie Slavin at BPW Limited:

: 281 | : [ protected] |

[ protected] | [ protected]

When it comes to keeping your commercial vehicles safe and reliable, one of the most important components to consider is the brake pads. The brake pads play a crucial role in ensuring that your vehicle comes to a stop safely and effectively. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right brake pads for your commercial vehicle. In this article, we will discuss the ten questions you should know about commercial brake pads to help you make an informed decision.

1. What are commercial brake pads?

Commercial brake pads are specifically designed for heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks, buses, and vans. These brake pads are built to withstand the high temperatures and pressures that commercial vehicles experience during heavy braking. Commercial brake pads are made from a composite material that includes friction materials, binders, and fillers. They are designed to provide maximum stopping power and durability under heavy loads.

2. How do commercial brake pads work?

Commercial brake pads work by creating friction against the brake rotors when the brake pedal is pressed. This friction slows down the rotation of the wheels, bringing the vehicle to a stop. The material used in commercial brake pads is engineered to withstand the heat generated during braking and provide consistent performance over time.

3. What are the different types of commercial brake pads?

There are several types of commercial brake pads available in the market, including organic, semi-metallic, and ceramic brake pads. Organic brake pads are made from natural materials such as rubber, carbon, and glass fibers. They provide smooth and quiet braking performance but wear out faster than other types. Semi-metallic brake pads are made from a mixture of metals, such as steel, copper, and iron. They offer excellent heat dissipation and durability, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications. Ceramic brake pads are made from a composite material that includes ceramic fibers and fillers. They provide superior braking performance, low dust levels, and long-lasting durability.

4. How do I know when to replace my commercial brake pads?

It is essential to inspect your commercial brake pads regularly to ensure they are in good condition. Signs that your brake pads need to be replaced include squealing or grinding noises when braking, reduced braking performance, and uneven wear on the brake pads. It is recommended to replace your commercial brake pads every 50,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and the type of brake pads used.

5. How do I choose the right commercial brake pads?

When choosing commercial brake pads for your vehicle, it is essential to consider factors such as the type of vehicle, driving conditions, and budget. It is crucial to select brake pads that are specifically designed for commercial vehicles to ensure optimal performance and safety. Consult with a professional mechanic or brake specialist to determine the best brake pads for your commercial vehicle.

6. How do I maintain my commercial brake pads?

Proper maintenance of your commercial brake pads is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Regularly inspect your brake pads for wear and tear, and replace them if necessary. It is also essential to check the brake fluid levels and ensure they are topped up to prevent brake failure. Additionally, avoid harsh braking and driving habits that can accelerate wear on your brake pads.

7. What are the benefits of using high-quality commercial brake pads?

Using high-quality commercial brake pads offers several benefits, including improved braking performance, reduced stopping distances, and increased safety. High-quality brake pads are designed to withstand the high temperatures and pressures that commercial vehicles experience, ensuring reliable performance under heavy loads. Additionally, high-quality brake pads are more durable and long-lasting, saving you money in the long run.

8. How do I install commercial brake pads?

Installing commercial brake pads requires specialized tools and knowledge of the braking system. It is recommended to consult with a professional mechanic or brake specialist for proper installation. Improper installation of brake pads can lead to brake failure and potentially dangerous driving situations.

9. What are some common issues with commercial brake pads?

Some common issues with commercial brake pads include brake noise, brake fade, and brake pulsation. Brake noise can indicate worn or damaged brake pads, while brake fade occurs when the braking performance decreases over time. Brake pulsation is characterized by a vibrating sensation when braking and can be caused by warped brake rotors or uneven brake pad wear. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of your commercial vehicle.

10. Where can I purchase commercial brake pads?

Commercial brake pads can be purchased from a variety of sources, including auto parts stores, online retailers, and specialty brake shops. It is essential to choose a reputable supplier that offers high-quality brake pads and excellent customer service. Consult with a professional mechanic or brake specialist to determine the best brake pads for your commercial vehicle and ensure proper installation for optimal performance and safety.

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