A THERMOMECHANICAL MODEL FOR THE ANALYSIS OF DISC BRAKE FRACTURE MECHANISMS

The aim of this article is to explain the damage mechanisms of disc brakes leading to macroscopic cracks on the friction surface. The work combines microanalysis of cracks and a thermomechanical modeling describing the thermal fatigue solicitation. The failure of disc brakes is discussed, giving indications of how to improve the design of this type of friction system in order to enhance its performances