The Importance of Proper Installation for Woven Brake Linings
Even the highest quality non asbestos woven brake lining will fail to perform if it is not installed correctly. Proper installation is critical to ensuring maximum surface contact even wear and the long term safety of the braking system. The process begins with the thorough cleaning of the brake drum or band to remove all traces of old friction material grease and rust. Any contamination on the mating surface can lead to localized hotspots or a significant reduction in the friction coefficient. As a manufacturer we provide detailed installation guides with our products to help maintenance teams achieve the best possible results and extend the life of their braking equipment.
When installing woven lining onto a brake band it is essential to ensure that the lining is tight against the metal surface. Any gaps between the lining and the band can cause the material to flex and eventually crack during braking operations. Most industrial woven linings are secured using rivets and the pattern and tension of these rivets are crucial. We recommend starting from the center of the lining and working towards the ends to ensure that any slack is pushed out. Using the correct size and material for the rivets usually brass or aluminum is also important to prevent damage to the brake drum should the lining wear down to the level of the rivet heads.
Another critical factor in the installation of non asbestos woven brake lining is the break in or bedding in period. When a new lining is installed it does not initially make 100 percent contact with the brake drum due to microscopic irregularities on both surfaces. During the first few hours of operation the brake should be used gently to allow the lining to wear in and conform perfectly to the drum. This process creates a uniform friction surface and helps to stabilize the friction coefficient. Skipping this step or subjecting the new lining to a full load immediately can lead to surface glazing and permanent damage to the material reducing its overall effectiveness and service life.
Alignment of the brake band is also a key consideration during installation. If the band is not perfectly aligned with the drum the lining will wear unevenly with one side bearing more load than the other. This not only reduces the braking torque but also causes the lining to wear out prematurely on one side. Maintenance teams should regularly check the alignment and the clearance between the lining and the drum when the brake is disengaged. Proper clearance is essential to prevent dragging which generates unnecessary heat and wear even when the brake is not in use. Our technical support team is always available to provide advice on these fine adjustments for various types of industrial machinery.
As a manufacturer we stand behind the quality of our non asbestos woven brake linings but we also emphasize the role of the technician in the final performance of the product. We offer training materials and on site support for large scale industrial projects to ensure that our linings are installed to the highest standards. By following the correct installation and maintenance procedures companies can maximize the safety and efficiency of their braking systems while minimizing the total cost of ownership. A well installed woven lining is a reliable and durable component that will provide years of trouble free service in the most demanding industrial environments.