Low Metallic Brake Pads

Low-metal brake pads, also known as semi-metallic or asbestos-free organic (NAO) brake pads, are a type of disc brake pad that contains less metal than traditional pads.

Brake pads work by sticking to a rotating disc called a rotor that is attached to the wheel hub. Friction between the pad and the rotor slows the wheel and stops the vehicle. Traditional covers contain 30-65% metals such as copper, iron, and steel to help dissipate heat. Low-metal covers contain 15-30% metal.

Lower metal content has benefits such as reduced brake noise and reduced rotor wear, but can also lead to higher operating temperatures. Alloy pads are fine for normal road driving, but may not hold up to repeated hard braking such as towing or racing. They offer a great combination of stopping power, quiet operation and ease on the rotors in everyday use.

How Low Metallic Brake Pads Are Different ?

Traditional brake pads usually contain high amounts of metals such as copper fibers, steel fibers, and other metals that contribute to heat dissipation and pad integrity. Low metal brake pads, as the name suggests, have a lower metal content and instead use more ceramic and carbon fiber.

The main differences between low metal brake pads and standard pads are:

Lower copper content

Copper gives regular brake pads better thermal conductivity and antioxidant properties. Low metal content brake pads have little to no copper fibers.

Increased ceramic and carbon

The low metal content brake pad mix is ​​mainly ceramic and carbon fiber. These provide friction and integrity while reducing brake dust.

Lower levels of steel and other metals

Steel wool fibers are common in semi-metallic brake pads, but are kept to a minimum in low-metallic versions. Other alloy metals are also reduced.

The overall result is a pad that has a lower metal content but still provides effective braking. The trade-off may be less heat dissipation, but the low-metal pad compensates for this with a specially designed compound that contains more ceramic.

Advantages of Low Metallic Pads

Low metal brake pads have several advantages over traditional semi-metallic pads:

Less Dust:

Low metal pads generate significantly less brake dust compared to semi-metallic pads. This means your wheels will always stay clean and won't need to be cleaned as often. Reducing brake dust also minimizes dust buildup on your brake calipers and rotors.

Quieter brakes:

The unique composition of low metal pads results in less noise and squeal when braking. This provides a smoother, more comfortable driving experience. The organic compounds used dampen vibrations and minimize brake squeal.

Less Rotor Wear:

Low metal pads protect the rotors compared to semi-metallic pads. Low abrasive properties result in fewer scratches and grooves on the rotor surface, which extends the rotor's lifespan. Less rotor wear means smoother, more consistent braking performance.

With a lower copper content and organic materials such as rubber, glass and Kevlar fibers, low metal brake pads are gentle on rotors while still providing the stopping power you need. Low metal brake pads produce less dust and noise while at the same time reducing rotor wear, providing noticeable benefits to many drivers.

Disadvantages of Low Metallic Pads

Brake pads with low metal content have some disadvantages compared to those with high metal content:

Reduced heat resistance

Organic friction materials with low metal content used in brake pads are not as resistant to heat. High temperatures from repeated hard braking can cause the pads to start to fade and lose stopping power.

Reduced braking power

Low metal brake pads have a lower metal content to improve friction, so they usually don't provide as much stopping power and bite as semi-metallic or full metal pads. Stopping distances may be longer.

Shorter pad life

Softer organic compounds wear out faster than metallic covers. Brake pads with low metal content may need to be replaced more frequently than other types of pads. If you drive frequently and under high stress, you may not achieve the desired mileage with low-metal pads.

Low-metal pads have advantages such as reduced dust and noise, but braking performance is compromised. Drivers looking for maximum stopping power and durability should consider other pad configurations, however low metal pads are suitable for normal road use where less heat is required.

Best Applications for Low Metal Brake Pads

Low metal brake pads are best suited for light vehicles that don't use hard braking often. Below are some of the most common applications where low metal brake pads excel:

Daily Drivers

Most passenger cars and light trucks used for daily commuting and city driving are well suited to low metal brake pads. They offer the right combination of quiet operation, long pad life, and effective braking in everyday life. The organic material in low metal brake pads makes them quieter than semi-metallic pads, making them ideal for daily drivers.

Light Commercial Vehicles

Low metal brake pads are recommended for light pickup trucks, SUVs, crossovers, and minivans that are not used to tow or transport heavy loads. For vehicles that only occasionally carry heavy loads, brake pads with a lower metal content can provide adequate braking without excessive noise or dust.

Vehicles not used for towing or hauling.

Brake pads with a low metal content are suitable for all vehicles not used for towing, such as trailers and boats. The extreme heat resistance and durability of semi-metallic brake pads are not required. Unless the vehicle is frequently used to transport heavy loads, brake pads with a lower metal content are the better choice.

Avoiding low-metal brake pads in heavy-duty applications allows drivers to reap the benefits with minimal restrictions. With a focus on everyday vehicles and light commercial vehicles, brake pads with a lower metal content provide quieter, cleaner, and longer-lasting braking performance.

Pad Composition

Low metal content brake pads usually contain a mixture of different friction materials that provide optimal braking performance while minimizing noise and dust. The main components of most low metal content brake pads are:

Ceramic

This is one of the key components of low metal content brake pads. Most coverings have a ceramic content of 30-65%. It reduces noise and ensures consistent braking performance.

Carbon

15-40% of low metal content brake pads are made up of various forms of carbon. Carbon dissipates heat and keeps the brakes cool. It also contributes to low dust emission.

Rubber

Most pads contain 5-20% rubber, which reduces noise. The rubber connects the cover material.

Metal

Although metal is rare, most pads contain 3-10% metallic material. This is usually in the form of copper fibers or a small amount of steel wool. The metal aids in heat transfer.

The exact mixture varies by brand and application. However, the key is to reduce the metal content, typically below 10%, while using ceramic, carbon and rubber to reduce noise, brake fade and dust. This optimum balance results in a high quality brake pad with low metal content.

Installing Low Metallic Pads

Installing low metal brake pads is a simple process, but there are some tips and precautions to keep in mind for optimal safety and performance.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Raise and secure the vehicle on jack stands. Remove the wheels to access the brake calipers and pads.

2. Locate the caliper bolts that hold the caliper in place. Remove these screws and remove the caliper from the caliper bracket. Use a bungee cord or wire to hang the caliper out of the way. Do not dangle the brake caliper from the brake hose.

3. Remove the brake pad bolts and slide out the old brake pads. Note the orientation of the pads when reinstalling.

4. Remove any dirt or dust from the brake caliper bracket. Check your brake discs. If they are badly ridged or uneven, they may need to be reground or replaced.

5. Install the new flat metal deck in the same orientation as the old one. Make sure the pad eyelets are flush in the caliper bracket.

6. Replace the pad pin bolts and tighten to the specified torque. Do not overtighten.

7. Replace the brake caliper and install the new caliper bolts. Tighten the brake caliper bolts to the specified torque.

8. Repeat for the remaining wheels.

9. Before starting, depress the brake pedal several times until firm pressure is reached.

Tips and Precautions

- Always replace the brake pads on an axle set. Do not replace only one page.

- Apply brake lubricant to the brake pad fasteners and caliper guides to prevent sticking.

- Do not clean the brake assembly with compressed air. This can damage the brake pads.

- When handling the pads, be careful not to contaminate them with oil, grease, or skin oils. This will reduce braking power.

- Use a series of light strokes to apply the new pads to ensure that they are properly seated on the rotor. First, avoid sudden braking.

Following the proper installation instructions and precautions will ensure optimal braking performance and safety with your new low-metal brake pads. If necessary, you can find the torque specifications for your vehicle in your workshop manual.

Maintaining Low Metallic Pads

Proper maintenance is key to getting the most out of your low metal content brake pads. Keep the following in mind:

Check pad thickness regularly

Measure the thickness of each pad using a caliper. Compare with the information on new cover thickness. Generally, pads should be replaced when they are 3mm or less thick.

Pay attention to wear indicators

Many pads have built-in wear indicators that will make a squealing noise when the pad material is low. This is your signal to check the pads and replace them if necessary.

Lubricate caliper slides and hardware

As part of your brake inspection, you should clean and lubricate the brake caliper guides and fittings. This allows the caliper to function smoothly and apply consistent pressure. Use a silicone brake lubricant made specifically for brakes. Avoid getting lubricant on the friction surfaces of the brake pads.

Regular inspection and planned maintenance will maximize the life and performance of your low-metal brake pads. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for inspection intervals. Identifying problems early can help avoid major brake repairs later.

When should low-metal brake pads be replaced?

Low-metal brake pads typically have a thinner friction material than semi-metal or ceramic pads. This means that they will wear out faster with heavy use. Experts recommend replacing them as soon as the low-metal deck thickness drops to 3mm or less. This ensures optimal braking performance and safety.

Low-metal pads tend to produce squeaks and vibrations as the friction material wears down. Squeaks, squeals, or vibrations when braking are signs that you should check your pads and possibly replace them. Do not ignore these wear-indicating sounds.

Finally, some brands of low-metal rubber have optical wear indicators built into the rubber. These are grooves or cuts in the surface of the cover that are visible if the cover material is too weak. When you see the visual indicator, it's time for new pads.

Regularly replacing low-metal pads as they wear out ensures maximum stopping power, reduces loss of braking effect, and prevents rotor damage. Follow the 3 mm minimum thickness rule, check for creaking sounds and vibrations, and look for visual wear indicators to determine when to install new low-metal pads. Do not wait until the pads are completely worn out, as this is dangerous. To ensure optimal security and performance, be proactive when replacing them.