Just a few years ago it seemed as if the trend to disk brakes was unstoppable. The main feature in their favor was superior braking performance, an important consideration given the increasingly powerful engines in today’s cars. Now, however, the trend is diminishing, and more and more manufacturers are installing drum brakes on the rear axle. Drum brakes are increasingly showing up in the subcompact and compact classes. Moreover, the technology is being used in other kinds of vehicles, like pickups.
The advantages of brake drums are obvious. Their enclosed design keeps out dirt and largely prevents the production of brake dust. Technically, they are easy to integrate with a mechanical parking brake, and they are less expensive to manufacture than disk brakes. Another important advantage is their low weight.
In response to this trend in the automotive industry, the ATE brand will present coated brake drums at the Geneva Motor show. Compared to their predecessors without coatings, the brake drums have a number of advantages. The additional coating provides effective protection against corrosion, making it unnecessary for repair shops to pre-treat the drums before installing them. In addition, drivers benefit from having a brake system with a long-lasting rust-free appearance.
ATE has offered coated brake disks since 2008 and is now applying the technology to brake drums. Since coating has definite advantages for drivers and workshops, ATE will continue to expand its line of coated brake drums.