AFTERMARKET NEWS
BPI Unveils Enhanced Hybrid Technology Braking Innovation At AAPEX
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McHENRY, Ill. – Brake Parts Inc., the makers of Raybestos brand brakes, recently introduced its Enhanced Hybrid Technology (EHT) to the braking world at AAPEX, held last month in Las Vegas. In 1982, BPI introduced non-asbestos (NAO) and semi-metallic disc formulas for the aftermarket. In 1998, the company introduced its first ceramic formulation. “This is a real game-changer for the aftermarket,” said David Overbeeke, president and CEO of BPI. “Element3 brake pads with EHT give
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December 2013 | Counterman
our customers a real selling advantage in an increasingly competitive marketplace.” Enhanced Hybrid Technology combines the best attributes of ceramic and semi-metallic into one brake pad formulation, according to BPI. Ceramic formulations are a popular choice among technicians and DIYers given their reputation for quiet operation and performance. At the same time, semi-metallic formulations deliver better wear and durability – especially in severe use and high-heat environments.
As popular as ceramic pads have become, they are not perfect for every application, BPI says. For example, some ceramic pad formulations are prone to rust jacking on the inboard side of the rotor, especially in the snow and salt belts of U.S. and Canada. In addition, ceramic formulations have a high copper content – as much as 20 to 25 percent in some pads. This is an issue since all brake pads must contain less than 5 percent copper by 2021, to comply with the mandated copper reduction legislation, and .5 percent by 2025. To address some of these issues, and to meet the upcoming copper compliance legislation, BPI took on the challenge of developing new brake pad formulations. After more than two years in development, BPI has released what it says is the world’s first Enhanced Hybrid Technology brake pad, the Element3. Overbeeke said, “EHT exceeds our performance expectations at every level. The quiet operation, cleaner wheels and improved stopping power are amazing. You can really feel the difference.” Element3 includes extensive coverage for passenger cars, SUVs and light trucks, according to BPI, with concentration in applications 10 years old or newer. The product line is enhanced with an exclusive Quiet Steel shim for additional noise damping and quieter operation, the company states. And, for a complete repair, hardware is included on a majority of applications; ensuring the brake pad installation is done right.