Carbon-Carbon Composite Brake Discs: Revolutionizing High-Performance Industries
By CFC Carbon Co., Ltd | May 17, 2025
What Are Carbon-Carbon (C/C) Composite Brake Discs?
airplane brake disc-aircraft carbon fiber composite material manufacturer- (2)
Carbon-carbon composite brake discs (C/C) are advanced materials combining carbon fibers embedded in a graphite matrix, renowned for their exceptional thermal stability, lightweight properties, and durability. Initially developed for aerospace applications like NASA’s Space Shuttle leading edges and intercontinental ballistic missiles, this technology has expanded into aviation, motorsports, and high-performance automotive sectors. CFC Carbon Co., Ltd, a global leader in carbon composite manufacturing, specializes in producing these cutting-edge components for industries demanding extreme performance.
Manufacturing Process: Precision Meets Innovation
The production of C/C brake discs involves a multi-stage process:
-
Material Preparation: Carbon fibers are coated, cut, and mixed with resin or pitch to form a “green body”.
-
Carbonization: The green body undergoes pyrolysis at 900°C to remove organic binders, leaving a porous carbon structure.
-
Siliconization: Liquid silicon infiltration (LSI) at 1,700°C in a vacuum fills voids, creating a dense, oxidation-resistant ceramic
carbon fiber composite airplane brake disc-semi-products-material
matrix.
-
Machining: Diamond tools shape the hardened discs to precise dimensions.
This 20-day process ensures unmatched material integrity, capable of withstanding temperatures exceeding 2,000°C.
Product Classification & Applications
1. Aerospace & Aviation
-
Aircraft Brakes: C/C discs reduce weight by 20% compared to steel, enabling 3,000+ landings per set (vs. 1,500 for metal). Boeing 767s using C/C brakes save 871 lbs, enhancing fuel efficiency.
-
Rocket Components: Used in solid-propellant rocket nozzles and reentry vehicle heat shields due to their resistance to 5,400°F temperatures.
2. Automotive & Motorsports
-
Supercars & F1: Mercedes-AMG, Ferrari, and Bugatti utilize C/C brakes for fade-free performance and 10% shorter braking distances.
-
Clutch Systems: CFC Carbon’s lightweight C/C clutch assemblies improve acceleration and thermal management in racing cars.
3. Industrial & Space Exploration
-
Thermal Management: Thin-walled C/C tubes and panels serve in spacecraft trusses and thermal shields, leveraging dimensional stability and zero outgassing.
Performance Advantages
-
Lightweight Design: Unsprung mass reduction by 11–13 lbs per wheel enhances handling and fuel efficiency.
-
Thermal Resistance: Operates consistently at 1,000°C+ without warping, ideal for high-energy braking.
-
Durability: Lifespan 3–4x longer than cast iron, with minimal maintenance.
-
Safety: 10-foot shorter braking distance at 62 mph compared to traditional systems.
CFC Carbon’s Leadership in Innovation
As a government-certified manufacturer, CFC Carbon Co., Ltd combines 45+ years of R&D expertise with state-of-the-art facilities to solve low-cost batch production challenges6. Our patented 3D fiber orientation technology ensures shear resistance and reliability for Airbus and Formula One partners.
Future Trends & Market Growth
With advancements in 3D weaving and silicon carbide integration, C/C composites are expanding into electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. CFC Carbon is pioneering copper/resin-impregnated graphite seals and next-gen C/SiC materials for broader industrial applications.
About CFC Carbon Co., Ltd
Based in Beijing’s Yizhuang Economic Development Zone, CFC Carbon is a subsidiary of HTMA Group, specializing in graphite, carbon felt, and C/C composites. Contact us at potter@cfccarbon.com or visit www.cfccarbon.com for inquiries.
related news /articles:
Carbon fibers for carbon-carbon applications (2)
Data Sheet of C/C Composite for Airplane Brakes/Disc
Carbon Fiber Composite (CFC) and Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC)
Data sheet of 2.5D C/C Composite material for airplane brake discs