Development of asbestos free composite for friction lining and estimation of its tribological properties

Abstract

Asbestos-free friction composite was developed in this work by using carbonized pistachio shell powder along with Phenolic resin, graphite and copper and silica. This friction composite can be alternative to asbestos material that causes various health risks and health hazards. Samples of brake friction composite were produced using compressive molding. The effect of varying percentage ingredients on the density, Rockwell hardness, water and oil absorption capacity and flame resistance, of the composite is evaluated. To determine wear and coefficient of friction (COF) of the friction material, tribological study was carried out using pin-on-disc setup. From obtained results it shows that the density, Rockwell hardness and flame resistance of composite material is directly proportional to the % of addition of binder, while the water and oil absorption capacity are inversely proportional to it. The reduction in COF was reported with increase in the % of filler reinforcement and increase of graphite content. The results of this composite show that carbonized pistachio shell particles can be better replacement for asbestos based friction composite.