INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Brake Disc (Rotor)

A rotating disc in disc brake systems that creates friction with brake pads to slow or stop vehicle motion.

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Component Specifications

Definition
The brake disc, also known as a rotor, is a critical rotating component in disc brake systems that converts kinetic energy into thermal energy through friction. When hydraulic pressure activates the brake caliper, brake pads clamp onto both sides of the rotating disc, creating friction that decelerates the vehicle. Modern brake discs feature ventilation channels, slots, or drilled holes to dissipate heat and prevent brake fade during repeated or heavy braking applications.
Working Principle
The brake disc operates on the principle of friction-based energy conversion. As the disc rotates with the wheel, hydraulic pressure forces brake pads against both sides of the disc surface. The resulting friction converts the vehicle's kinetic energy into heat, which is dissipated through the disc's material and design features. Ventilated discs use internal vanes to create airflow, while slotted or drilled discs provide additional heat dissipation and gas evacuation paths.
Materials
Typically made from cast iron (gray iron or ductile iron) for standard applications, with high-carbon cast iron for performance vehicles. Some applications use composite materials (carbon-ceramic) for high-performance or racing vehicles, and coated discs (zinc, aluminum) for corrosion resistance.
Technical Parameters
  • Weight 5-15kg depending on size
  • Diameter 200-400mm (passenger vehicles)
  • Hardness 180-240 HB (cast iron)
  • Thickness 20-40mm
  • Parallelism 0.01-0.02mm
  • Surface Finish Ra 1.6-3.2μm
  • Runout Tolerance 0.05-0.10mm
  • Minimum Thickness Specified by manufacturer (typically 1-2mm less than new)
Standards
ISO 15484, DIN 74281, SAE J431, JIS D 4311

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Brake Disc (Rotor).

brake disc brake rotor disc brake component automotive braking brake system parts rotor specifications brake disc materials disc brake standards Brake Disc (Rotor) Brake Disc (Rotor) in Motor Vehicle Manufacturing

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Braking System

A safety-critical subsystem within the drive system that decelerates or stops a vehicle by converting kinetic energy into thermal energy through friction.

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Brake System

A safety-critical component that controls deceleration and stopping of a trolley.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Brake fade from overheating
  • Cracking under thermal stress
  • Corrosion in humid environments
  • Vibration/pulsation from uneven wear
  • Reduced braking efficiency with contamination
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Excessive heat generation during prolonged braking
Failure: Thermal cracking or warping
Mitigation: Use ventilated discs, proper material selection, and avoid prolonged heavy braking
Trigger: Corrosive environment exposure
Failure: Surface rust leading to uneven friction and vibration
Mitigation: Apply protective coatings, use corrosion-resistant materials, regular inspection
Trigger: Improper installation torque
Failure: Uneven contact leading to vibration and premature wear
Mitigation: Follow manufacturer torque specifications, use proper installation procedures

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Diameter tolerance: ±0.5mm, Thickness variation: ≤0.015mm, Runout: ≤0.10mm
Test Method
Dimensional inspection per ISO 1101, Hardness testing per ISO 6506, Thermal cycling tests, Salt spray corrosion testing per ISO 9227

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

Not customer reviews or live demand data. These dimensions support RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
4/5
Manufacturing capability
4/5
Inspection readiness
5/5
Supplier transparency
3/5

These scores are example evaluation dimensions, not real customer ratings, country-specific buyer feedback, or live inquiry activity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes brake disc warping?

Brake disc warping typically results from uneven heat distribution during braking, improper torque application during installation, or material stress from rapid cooling (thermal shock).

How often should brake discs be replaced?

Replacement intervals vary by vehicle and driving conditions, but typically occur every 50,000-70,000 miles or when thickness reaches minimum specifications, cracks appear, or severe scoring/pulsation occurs.

What is the difference between solid and ventilated brake discs?

Solid discs are single-piece designs for lighter vehicles, while ventilated discs have internal vanes between two friction surfaces to improve heat dissipation for heavier vehicles or performance applications.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

Data Basis

CNFX manufacturer profiles, technical classification, publicly available product information, and ongoing plausibility checks.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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