The brand, which is always in constant evolution, highlights the importance of technological discoveries for the improvement of equipment over the years
Before the creation of friction materials, vehicles and machines were stopped by improvised equipment such as wood and leather. It was only in 1897 that the brake linings as we know them today were created, based on hair straps and cotton by the Englishman Herbert Frood. In 1908 the material was perfected using an asbestos fabric, which became the basis for the friction material in the following six decades due to its great resistance to temperature, flexibility, friction properties and compatibility with resins and other binders.
According to Thiago dos Santos Angélica, responsible for formulations in the aftermarket of TMD Friction, this type of friction material has been used for around sixty years. “Friction materials made from asbestos have contributed greatly to the safety of automobiles, trucks and all types of mobile machinery around the world for many years. After that came the development of drum brake linings, the friction materials made by the rubber industry and metallic brake linings. It was decades of evolution until we reached the quality that exists today in the market “, points out.
Over the years, asbestos has become an expensive raw material, with variable properties, in addition to causing health risks when inhaled. The materials listed for its replacement were fiberglass, mineral fibers, metallic fibers and, more recently, carbon and synthetic fibers. “In the early 1980s, companies like Ford and Volkswagen started installing asbestos-free original drum brake linings in the cars, it was a big change in the market”, he recalls..
All this progress has resulted in the creation of friction materials made with the latest technology and with high performance. Currently, Cobreq equipment is manufactured with more than 220 raw materials such as resin, metals, rubber, abrasives, lubricants, loads in addition to ecological and recycled inputs such as fiberglass, cellulose fiber, recycled rubber, chips and friction material, aiming at its commitment to quality, safety and the environment.
To meet the different demands of performance, market, durability, resistance and, of course, safety, Cobreq also makes use of materials with high strength and performance. According to Thiago, the use of inputs such as Silicon Carbide – considered the second hardest substance on the planet – and Aramid – polymeric fiber more resistant than steel – are essential for their durability and excellence in their functioning.
“The combination of these raw materials enables a broad portfolio of high quality capable of meeting the most diverse legal requirements in addition to different markets and audiences. Through our investment in research and technology we are able to not only meet market demands but also bring innovative solutions to drivers, always striving for excellence and safety “, says.
ABOUT COBREQ
Cobreq is one of the brands of the TMD Friction group, the largest brake pad manufacturer in the world. The company develops brake linings, shoes and pads covering vehicles from the light, heavy and motorcycle lines. Located in an area of 100 thousand m², in Salto, interior of São Paulo, the factory represents one of the largest units of the TMD Friction group outside Europe. For more information access www.cobreq.com.br.
About the TMD Friction Group
TMD Friction, is a global leader in the manufacture of brake pads for the automotive industry. It also manufactures disc brake pads and drum brake linings for applications in various types of vehicles. Its product portfolio also includes sports brake pads, as well as friction materials for this segment. TMD Friction serves the global spare parts market through the brands Textar, Mintex, Don, Pagid and Cobreq, in addition to developing and producing friction coatings for the industry under the Cosid brand. The TMD Friction Group has four manufacturing plants in Germany, in addition to other units in Europe, the USA, Brazil, Mexico, China, Japan and South Africa. The group has more than 5,000 employees worldwide. For more information access www.tmdfriction.com.
Press information:
Alfapress Comunicações
Isabella Lima – Communication Consultant
isabella.lima@alfapress.com.br
(19) 99565-3247
