Abstract: An annular brake disc takes the form of a metal frame having circumferentially-distributed, part-circular apertures in which part-circular pads of high heat-absorption material are inserted. Chordal gaps of the apertures open radially of the frame and through these the pads can be inserted and then rotated into a final position where they are held by a dowel. In arrangements in which the part-circular apertures intersect each pad is cut away on one side to receive the adjacent pad except one which is cut away on both sides and another which is not cut away but which is the only pad held in its final position by a dowel.

Abstract: In an aircraft wheel and disc brake assembly wherein carbon rotor discs keyed to the wheel are interleaved with carbon stator discs keyed to a torque tube fixed to the axle and in which a fixed draught of air is passed through and around the disc pack, the consequential increase in oxidation of the carbon discs is obviated or minimized by the employment of heat shield members between the keys of the torque tube and the wheel rim which define passages for the flow of cooling air isolated from the disc pack. The keys of the torque tube may be hollow and may be formed with apertures whereby the interior communicates with the passages so that cooling air also passes through the interior of the torque tube keys.

Abstract: A carbon brake disc has its torque transmitting formations (keyways or keys) reinforced by filament reinforced carbon inserts which are preferably located, and may be bonded, in cut-out areas of the disc periphery. The formations are formed by a separate series of operations from those used to form the remainder of the friction members such as by application of a filimentary reinforcement of carbonized cloth, textile tape, random textile fibers or boron fibers.