Bendix enhances Mechanical Retention System for Ultimate 4WD™ disc brake pads

Bendix’s popular Ultimate 4WD™ disc brake pads, developed for four-wheel drives working in demanding applications in extreme conditions, are now even tougher following the adoption of a new Mechanical Retention System (MRS).

The new MRS adopts a hook type attachment that uses bi-directional hooks to further anchor the friction material to the back plates, for added strength and durability.

Together with powerful adhesives, the MRS is what enhances the attachment of the brake pad friction material to the steel back plates. Previously Ultimate 4WD™ pads employed a mesh type attachment used commonly in the commercial vehicle and heavy vehicle segments. The new process adopts a hook type attachment that sees bi-directional hooks further anchor the friction material to the back plates for even greater strength and durability.

The new system has been extensively tested by Bendix and provides benefits over the earlier retention system, preventing any ‘end lift’ of the friction material when high lateral loads are placed on the pad. This extra strength and durability is important especially when used in high pad pressure / high load braking applications, such as in heavily accessorised four-wheel drives and when towing big loads.

Adoption of the new process follows an investment of approximately $100,000 in technology and equipment, and brings additional manufacturing capabilities in-house at Bendix's Ballarat facility.

Further cementing local manufacturing
This change of manufacturing process for the Ultimate 4WD™ disc brake pad range, has seen the installation of new equipment at Bendix’s Ballarat manufacturing and research and development facility – it’s an investment of approximately $100,000 in this product line.

The new MRS capabilities also brings additional manufacturing in-house for Bendix, as the earlier mesh process was applied by a third-party supplier, demonstrating Bendix’s ongoing commitment to local manufacturing.

Bendix's Ultimate 4WD™ Disc Brake Pads are now even tougher - particularly in high pad pressure and load braking situations - following development of the new MRS.