The effect of friction block hole configurations on the brake tribological performance of high-speed trains

Three triangular friction block configurations are commonly employed in high-speed train brake systems, namely, unperforated, perforated configuration with one circular hole, and perforated with three circular holes. In this study, we adopted these friction block types to investigate the effect of perforated friction block configurations on the brake performance of high-speed trains based on a self-developed brake test rig. The results indicate the significant impact of the number of the holes on the wear behavior, temperature distribution, and vibration characteristics of the brake interface. The friction surface of the unperforated block is covered by wear debris, while the perforated blocks produce less wear debris. Furthermore, the one-hole block exhibits a more uniform temperature distribution and better vibration behavior than that with three holes. The friction brake is a dynamic process, during which separation and attachment between the pad and disc alternatively occur, and the perforated structure on the friction block can both trap and expel the wear debris.