METHOD FOR FUSING HARD CERAMIC-METALLIC LAYER ON A BRAKE ROTOR

摘要

A fused ceramic-metallic surface is formed on a supporting rotor ( 12 ) substrate for enhancing the service life and/or braking effectiveness of a vehicular brake assembly ( 10 ). The ceramic-metallic layer is produced by spreading a precursor slurry ( 32 ) on the friction surfaces ( 20, 22 ) of the rotor ( 12 ). The slurry ( 32 ) is dried and then irradiated in specific zones or predetermined areas ( 30 ) using a high powered diode laser ( 42 ). A copper mask ( 34 ) acts as a template by providing openings ( 38 ) which correspond precisely in shape and location to the predetermined areas ( 30 ) to be fused. The mask ( 34 ) includes a reflective mirror surface ( 36 ) which reflects away laser energy from areas of the friction surface ( 20, 22 ) that are not intended to be fused. Finish grinding or machining may be required to obtain the desired tribological surface for engaging friction pads ( 18 ) carried in a caliper ( 16 ).