Experimental investigation of natural frequency uncertainties in disc brakes in contact with pads

Abstract

The brake system is a critical component of any vehicle, ensuring safety and control while driving. Disc brake stability, understanding and optimizing the contact area between the disc and the pad is crucial for improving braking performance and preventing issues like brake squeal. Several sources of uncertainty in a braking system can make it difficult to completely eliminate problems like squealing. This paper attempts to study the uncertainty of natural frequencies by changing the contact area between the disk and the pads with an experimental investigation. To this end, three stages of testing have been performed. An experimental modal study under free disk conditions has been conducted to identify material properties, followed by a modal examination of a clamped brake system without pads to determine boundary conditions. Then, modal tests have been performed to investigate the response uncertainties by changing the contact surface between the disc and pads. This research approach can provide valuable insights into the factors that influence the performance and noise characteristics of the braking system, particularly in relation to brake squeal.