The process of seating new friction materials against rotor surfaces is critical for optimal braking performance. This bedding-in procedure, sometimes referred to as burnishing, ensures maximum contact area between the brake pads and rotors. For example, without proper bedding, the effective braking force can be significantly reduced, and premature wear may occur.
Proper bedding is essential for achieving consistent stopping power, minimizing brake fade, and extending the lifespan of both the pads and rotors. Historically, variations in friction material composition and rotor metallurgy have necessitated different bedding procedures. Modern materials often require a series of controlled accelerations and decelerations to transfer a thin layer of pad material onto the rotor surface, creating an ideal friction interface.