Title: Numerical and analytical investigation of temperature distribution in a brake drum with simulated defects

Authors: Adrian Ilinca, Florin Ilinca, Boumediene Falah

Addresses: Engineering Department, Universite du Quebec a Rimouski, 300 allee des Ursulines, Rimouski, Quebec, G5L 3A1, Canada. Industrial Materials Institute, National Research Council, 75, rue Mortagne, Boucherville, Quebec, J4B 6Y4, Canada. Engineering Department, Universite du Quebec a Rimouski, 300, allee des Ursulines, Rimouski, Quebec, G5L, 3A1, Canada

Abstract: One of the most important factors affecting brake performance is the temperature of the drum-lining contact surface, as excessive heating will drastically reduce the friction coefficient. In this paper, we investigate the temperature distribution in a brake drum by emphasising the effect of a reduced contact area with the lining as a result of wear or geometric deformation. Three models of varying degree of complexity are used for the analysis. An empirical formula, available in the open literature, has been expanded to accurately predict the transient variation of drum temperature. Its calibration and validation have been performed with a one-dimensional and an axi-symmetric model based on finite element discretisation with unstructured grids. The physical model is based on the transient energy equation and accounts for convective and radiative heat transfer. Influence of defects on the drum-lining interface is also simulated and brake performance is evaluated for this non-ideal case using the three models. This approach provides an accurate and effective tool for the heat transfer analysis in the brake drum and, therefore, for the design of brake foundations.

Keywords: heat transfer; brake drum; numerical analysis; analytical method; simulated defects.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.2001.001935

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 2001 Vol.26 No.2/3, pp.146-160

Published online: 15 Aug 2003 *

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