Abstract: A friction disk may comprise a first wear surface formed from a carbon fiber-carbon matrix composite material. A wear plug may be located in an opening defined by the carbon fiber-carbon matrix composite material. The wear plug may extend axially from the wear surface. The wear plug may comprise a rod or a particulate.

Abstract: A friction material for a friction facing member useful for transmitting torque includes a backing having a front surface and a rear surface. A plurality of precisely shaped friction composites defining patterned friction coating are attached to the front surface of the backing. The precisely shaped friction composites include a plurality of friction particles dispersed in a binder. In one embodiment, the friction material has an elastic modulus of about 107 dynes/cm2 or less.

Abstract: A brake pad comprises a first pad layer made of a first friction material and a second pad layer made of a second friction material different from the first friction material and operatively mounted to the first pad layer The first pad layer has a higher level of friction initially and the second pad layer has a higher level of friction after wearing and the first pad layer is less wcar resistant than the second pad layer. As the first pad layer wears away, the second pad layer commences to wear or “break-in.” Because the wearing is uneven at the interface, portions of the first pad layer continue to offer an immediate and higher level of friction as portions of the second pad layer “break-in” gradually to offer the high level of friction. Eventually, the first pad layer wears away, leaving the second pad layer already “broken-in” for a long-lasting life.

Abstract: A brake lining comprises a lining body defining a plurality of holes therein and a plurality of blocks made of certain material, each block disposed in a respective hole of the lining body, whereby, a coated layer is formed on the brake disk when the brake lining is urged against a brake disk to protect the surface of the brake disk from abrasion. The holes of the lining body can be circular and the blocks can be made to match the holes. In a preferred embodiment, the disposition of the holes is to extend along a friction path between the brake lining and the brake disk. Also the disposition of the holes is to stagger the holes at the edges thereof along the friction path between the brake lining and the brake disk.