Fras-le offers expert advice on common brake drum issues
CV braking supplier, Fras-le, is advising fleet operators on how to identify common problems with brake drums to ensure safe and efficient braking performance.
Cracked brake drums, which result from excessive heating and cooling during operation, can be a serious safety issue, says Fras-le.
If a crack extends through the entire drum, it must be replaced immediately. If repeated cracks occur, fleet operators should check for brake system faults or potential driver issues, ensuring the system's balance and the correct friction ratings for brake linings, warns Fras-le.
Another common issue is grease staining, which causes discolouration on the braking surface. This can be due to a faulty lubrication system or improper greasing of the brake cams. After fixing the source of contamination, the components should be cleaned thoroughly, and any affected brake linings replaced.
Polished brake drums, characterised by a mirror-like finish, can be remedied by lightly sanding the brake surface and linings with medium-grit emery cloth. Fras-le recommends sanding the surfaces each time the linings are replaced to maintain performance.
Lastly, scored brake drums caused by metal-to-metal contact or foreign debris should be checked, and if grooves are visible, the drum should be replaced to prevent performance issues.
Fras-le brake drums are crafted with precision to ensure superior performance and reliability. Each drum undergoes an exact casting process, producing uniform wall thickness for consistent thermal expansion, minimising brake judder and vibration, and ensuring even brake stress distribution.
To guarantee quality, every batch is rigorously tested for metallurgical composition, hardness and tensile strength. Manufactured from high-grade cast iron, the drums are cooled at a constant controlled temperature for optimal hardness and durability.
In line with the highest standards, Fras-le brake drums are UN ECE R90:02 certified, meeting stringent regulations for braking performance, product integrity and manufacturing quality.