Brake Tech

Alcon describes how to assess disc crazing, radial cracks, scoring and heat spotting, including relevant inspection thresholds and minimum thickness.

Alcon explains how curved brake disc vanes affect airflow and crack resistance, and why armored vehicle discs may use non-handed castings.

Alcon explains why brake rotors and pads have minimum thickness limits, including caliper piston travel, thermal capacity and structural safety.

Alcon explains brake pad replacement criteria, including contamination, cracks, detachment, edge wear, glazing, backing plate deformation and uneven wear.

Alcon compares opposed-piston and single-sided brake calipers across installation, stiffness, fade resistance, corrosion, parking brake function, cost, and aesthetics.

Alcon explains the system-level engineering requirements involved in specifying a brake caliper, including brake torque, disc thermal capacity, pad work rate, and stiffness.

Alcon explains how the maximum force a driver can apply to the brake pedal influences minimum burst-pressure requirements and brake component strength.