Abstract: A dry clutch is prepared from a composite of fiber yarns, including fiberglass fibers and polymer fibers such as polyacrylonitrile fibers, which are blended together and twisted with wire. The yarns are shaped in a disc or other form and are bonded together with a heat curable binder system that includes an elastomer and a resin. The binder system also may contain organic and inorganic friction modifying particles.

Abstract: Blister formation in extrusion molded, non-asbestos friction elements such as clutch facings containing substantially non-porous fibers is substantially eliminated by the inclusion in the extrusible plastic mix of which the friction elements are made of a small amount of diatomite having a particle size including agglomerates such that at least 10 percent by weight thereof is maintained on a 325 mesh screen.

Abstract: A wet friction material composition for use in clutches, brakes and the like is composed of a resilient binder comprising a fluoroelastomer. The friction material is characterized by containing a significant amount of wollastonite as a filler, which unexpectedly alters the ratio between the dynamic and static coefficients of friction exhibited by the friction material during actual use.

Abstract: A friction material member particularly useful in high load and temperature applications and a method for making the same are disclosed. The friction material member is made by preparing a mixture of sinterable metal particles, carbonaceous material, friction enhancers and curable polymeric resin; the mixture comprising at least about 50 percent by weight of metal particles and sufficient resin to coat and bond the metal particles, carbonaceous material and friction enhancers. The mixture is molded and the resin cured to form a piece in a solid preformed shape corresponding to the shape of the mold. Thereafter, the preformed piece is heated in a substantially oxygen free atmosphere for a time and at temperatures and pressures sufficient to fuse at least a portion of the metal particles into a sintered metal matrix. The preformed piece may be sintered to a metal backing plate during the heating step, or may be welded, brazed or soldered to the plate after heating.

Abstract: Carbonaceous fibers are incorporated into a fluoroelastomer matrix to provide an improved wet friction material having superior performance characteristics at elevated temperatures.