Composite K type brake shoes, as one of the railroad friction materials on the market, are in extensive use in the European freight sector; especially on new and refurbished goods wagons following the recent European noise reduction legislations to reduce the rolling noise emission.
The rolling noise of railway freight wagons is mainly attributed to wheel surface roughness which is greatly influenced by the type of brake shoe.
The wheels in contact with cast iron brake shoes for example, show higher surface roughness in comparison with composite K or LL type brake shoes that offer up to 10 dB reduction in rolling noise emission.
In developing new composite K type brake shoes, one should take into account the following performance and operational requirements as part of design parameters:
- Tare to laden performance ratio
- Winter performance
- Effective and uniform heat distribution during brake applications
- Effect on track circuit and signalling system
- Frictional and wear characteristics during drag braking
- Non-susceptibility to metal inclusion
- Noise free operation
Providing bespoke formulations designed to meet industry standards. Enabling significant time savings in product development and providing total technical assistance.