Metal powders for Friction

Friction materials are utilized in the braking systems of automobiles, commercial vehicles, aircraft, motorcycles, trains and off-road vehicles and in other industrial applications. In simple terms, these materials help stop vehicles as a part of the brake pad or drum brake lining.

The exact composition of a brake lining is often a closely guarded secret, and the process of achieving it almost as much an art as a science. Iron powder is a key ingredient in semi-metallic brake linings, enhancing both the performance and the long-term reliability and durability of the product.

The friction powder range from Höganäs offers a comprehensive selection of iron powders for both OEM and aftermarket applications.

Iron powder is used as a filler in friction materials, while also adding significant thermal transfer properties, a factor that helps to dissipate heat, which improves performance and reduces wear on the brake pad.

Höganäs sponge iron powders provide excellent bonding in the friction material matrix. The high internal porosity of these products helps minimize brake noise, brake rotor wear and brake pad wear to a greater extent than other metallic alternatives.

Product Examples

A wide selection of iron powders is available for this purpose in terms of performance and cost. Our hydrogen-reduced and carbon-reduced sponge iron powders are both widely used in the friction industry.

Commonly used grades are R-12 and M20/80-19. More product examples are
presented in the Powder Selection Guide

Common Grades

R-12

Hydrogen-reduced sponge iron powder. Highest internal porosity, highest surface area and lowest AD available. Globally the most commonly used iron powder for friction applications.

M20/80-19

Carbon-reduced sponge iron powder. Low AD, with a mixture of coarse and fine particles. Widely used for numerous friction applications.

Special Grades

Electronic Oxide 40
Pure Iron Oxide (magnetite) with fine particle size.

SNC100.24

A special sponge iron powder with a thin coating of sulphur

Distaloy MH
Elemental Copper (25%) bonded to iron powder particles.

Iron Powder Selection Guide for Friction Materials