Quieter braking, reduced emissions from brake dust and improved braking performance are just some the challenges faced by the MEYLE development team. This group of experts have developed both MEYLE-ORIGINAL pads and MEYLE-PD pads and are now looking to make further improvements. 

Stefan Bachmann, team leader for the MEYLE brake and drive product area says that brake noise will be a key focus in the future. He says, “We note a clear trend towards sensitive perception of sounds. With electro-mobility eliminating engine noises, the driver becomes more sensitive so that previously unnoticed brake noises can now be perceived as disturbing.”

Reducing brake noise is therefore a key element in MEYLE brake product development. Stefan also says that brake squeal also comes into focus. He comments, “A squealing brake does not always mean a broken brake pad or disc. As a rule, the sportier the pads the more they tend to squeal. In the case of 'sporty' drivers, higher loads can result in stronger vibrations between the brake pads and the brake disc, which can be perceived by the driver as disturbing or squealing in certain frequency ranges. In addition, 'neighbouring' components such as control arm bushings are worn out and vibration is transmitted in the direction of the last component of the overall suspension, the brake. A squealing brake can also mean that there is a fault in the brake system or that incorrect brake components have been installed. In this case inspection is essential.”

Stefan says that two different types of brake pads have been developed to meet driver needs. For the more comfort conscious driver there is MEYLE-ORIGINAL brake pads which focus on the lowest possible background noise. MEYLE-PD brake pads focus on performance for sporty driving and tight response. Stefan says, “For next generation MEYLE-PD brake pads, we have succeeded in combining the best of both worlds and developing performance-oriented and low-noise brake pads at the same time. This not only helps the environment, but also makes rims look cleaner for a longer time.”

With its PD pads, MEYLE has adapted the friction material and design. Chamfer and slots of the friction pad are optimally and individually aligned to different vehicles. In addition, the new MEYLE-PD brake pads have individual so-called shims, between three and five layers depending on the application, to minimise noise and vibration. The pad production also features scoring (final heat treatment of brake pads) or a special coating of the brake pad surface that shortens the bedding-in time and ensures the usual MEYLE-PD performance from the very first braking.

To view a full video on what makes good brakes visit the MEYLE YouTube channel "MEYLE TV" or click on the link below.