BRAKE TEMPERATURE SIGNALS

 

(Temperatures indicated are at the lining/drum interface. Temperatures are approximate.)

 

550ºF - 650ºF - Brake resin odor is present

850ºF - Brakes begin to smoke

1100ºF - Brake oxidation occurs as brake parts open to air rushing by

1250ºF - Drums become cherry red internally

+ 1250ºF - Danger of run-away due to excess drum expansion

 

Brake lining will remain within its designated friction range on a properly maintained brake through all of the temperatures described above, under three(3) conditions:

 

• The rated axle capacity of the brake material hasn’t been exceeded.

• That at the temperature above 850ºF, the driver does not over speed the vehicle where severe or sudden braking can be expected.

• That the brake lining is not contaminated with grease or oil.