Industrial brake linings are commonly made from asbestos-free composites engineered for specific torque, temperature, and wear requirements. The main categories are: organic (NAO), semi-metallic, and sintered metal. Organic linings tend to be quieter and less abrasive but may wear faster and handle less heat. Semi-metallic linings offer strong durability, good heat tolerance, and stable friction for heavy-duty use. Sintered metal linings provide the highest temperature resistance and strong performance in harsh conditions (wet, dirty, high energy stops), but they can be more abrasive and costly.
Material selection should match your duty cycle and environment. A crane hoist with frequent stops may need higher thermal capacity than a static holding application. Mining and downhill conveyor systems may prioritize fade resistance and contamination tolerance.
Because friction material directly defines brake torque and heat behavior, using OEM-approved lining formulations is critical. Substitutes can change friction coefficient, accelerate disc/drum wear, and reduce safety margins.