Often here at INDUSTRIAL BRAKE & FRICTION SUPPLY we are asked to provide information on the different wet running friction paper qualities we supply and how to choose the correct material for the application. Wet running friction materials are designed to operate in oil (ATF, transmission oils, hydraulic oils, specialised performance oils etc.) where controlled friction behaviour is required for consistent torque transfer, smooth engagement, and long service life.

Below is an overview of the typical wet running friction materials we supply, along with their key performance characteristics and common applications.

Often here at INDUSTRIAL BRAKE & FRICTION SUPPLY we are asked to provide information on the different wet running friction paper qualities we supply and how to choose the correct material for the application. Wet running friction materials are designed to operate in oil (ATF, transmission oils, hydraulic oils, specialised performance oils etc.) where controlled friction behaviour is required for consistent torque transfer, smooth engagement, and long service life.

Below is an overview of the typical wet running friction materials we supply, along with their key performance characteristics and common applications.

1) ADVANCED FRICTION PAPER

Overview

Advanced Friction Paper has an enhanced fibre structure and engineered porosity designed to provide high energy capability, controlled oil flow, smooth engagement, low wear, and long service life. It is typically selected where the customer needs stable performance over repeated engagement cycles.

Key performance benefits

• Low ratio of static to dynamic coefficient of friction: Helps reduce harsh “grab” engagement and improves shift quality.
• Smooth engagement behaviour: Promotes controlled torque build-up and reduced shudder.
• Excellent energy capability: Suitable for repeated engagements where heat generation is high.
• Good wear resistance: Reduces lining degradation and extends service intervals. 

2) CARBON FRICTION PAPER

Overview

Carbon Friction Paper incorporates highly conductive fibres and porous carbonaceous materials to deliver excellent thermal stability and very good µ-V behaviour. This type is often chosen for demanding systems where heat management and torque curve stability are essential.

The carbon structure improves heat dissipation and helps maintain consistent friction behaviour over a wide range of operating conditions.

Key performance benefits

• Low static to dynamic coefficient of friction: Supports smooth engagement and reduced “lock-up shock”.
• Anti-noise / anti-vibration characteristics: Helps reduce chatter, squeal, and engagement shudder.
• Excellent energy capability: Handles severe duty engagement cycles and thermal loads.
• Good wear resistance: Supports long life even under elevated temperatures. 

3) SINTERED FRICTION MATERIAL

Overview

Our Sinter is a bronze/brass based sprinkled sintered friction material for wet running applications. This lining is designed to deliver stable friction values under high surface pressure at low speed, where many paper materials can struggle.

Sintered materials are selected when the application demands high mechanical strength and stable friction under heavy load.

To meet environmental requirements, this grade is lead free.

Key performance benefits

• Good wear resistance: Performs well in heavy load environments.
• Stable coefficient of friction under high load: Designed for high surface pressures and demanding duty.
• High mechanical strength: Resists deformation and maintains structure under load.
• Excellent friction stability in high performance oils: Supports consistent operation in specialised oil types.

4) CARBON COMPOSITE FRICTION MATERIAL

Overview

Carbon Plus (Composite) is an advanced friction material based on natural and synthetic fibres and fillers, strengthened by a unique resin binder. It is designed for severe duty applications requiring excellent heat resistance, strong anti-wear performance, and stable friction characteristics.

This material provides a positive µ-V characteristic across various pressures and temperatures, improving torque stability and engagement feel.

Key performance benefits

• High energy capability: Suitable for severe duty and high thermal load conditions.
• Close to 1:1 static to dynamic coefficient of friction: Promotes exceptionally smooth engagement and superior NVH behaviour.
• Stable coefficient of friction over speed and pressure: Improves predictability and torque curve control.
• Superior wear resistance: Extends lining life in harsh operating conditions.
• Good oil compatibility: Suitable across a wide range of oils depending on system design. 

5) ELASTOMER FRICTION MATERIAL

Overview

Our Elastomer is a rubber-based friction material engineered to be flexible but resilient. It provides high mechanical fatigue resistance, controlled engagement, and stable friction characteristics. Elastomer materials are often selected where compliance, damping, and smooth engagement are required.

Key performance benefits

• Good thermal stability: Handles typical wet running thermal conditions effectively.
• Stable coefficient of friction: Supports predictable torque output.
• Excellent engagement characteristics: Helps reduce shock loads and improves drivability.
• Good wear resistance: Suitable for repeated operation and long service intervals.

6) GRAPHITE FRICTION MATERIAL

Overview

Our moulded graphite friction material contains a high percentage of carbonaceous components, designed to provide superior energy absorption in wet running applications. This material is particularly suited to demanding duty cycles where thermal loading is high and consistent friction performance is required.

Graphite-based friction materials are commonly selected where applications generate high heat and require a lining that maintains stability without rapid wear or friction fade.

Key performance benefits

• Outstanding thermal stability in high energy applications Excellent resistance to heat build-up and thermal stress, making it ideal for severe engagement conditions.
• Stable coefficient of friction Promotes consistent torque output and predictable engagement performance over time.
• Good wear resistance Supports longer service life under harsh operating conditions.