Abstract: A deep cryogenic tempering process for brake components such as rotors and drums is provided, wherein the unique processing profile is dependent on properties of the specific brake components. The process comprises the steps of placing a brake component at a temperature within a cryogenic processing chamber, cooling the brake component at a descent rate until the brake component temperature is approximately ?300° F., maintaining the brake component temperature at ?300° F. for a stay time, raising the temperature of the brake component to approximately ?300° F. at an ascent rate, maintaining the temperature of the brake component at 300° F. for a post temper time, and lowering the temperature of the brake component to room temperature at a cool down rate.

Abstract: A deep cryogenic tempering process for brake components such as rotors and drums is provided, wherein the unique processing profile is dependent on properties of the specific brake components. The dependent properties include material, mass, and geometrical cross-section, among others, and as a result, application of the deep cryogenic tempering process to brake components results in significant improvements in performance and service life. In another preferred form, the present invention provides a brake component having an improved molecular structure as a result of undergoing deep cryogenic tempering, which results in improved structural properties such as improved warpage resistance and heat resistance, and reduced heat checking, fading, and cracking.