Research Status on Frictional Vibration and Noise of Mechanical Brake

Background: Brake’s frictional noise and vibration occurs commonly in the braking of mechanical devices. The noise pollutes the environment and disgusts people. The vibration damages the mechanical parts, weakens the braking performance and shortens the life of brake. Objective: The purpose of this study is to provide an overview on the brake’s frictional noise and vibration, and to analyze how brake’s noise and vibration come about. Method: In this paper, the categories of brake’s noise and vibration are introduced as low frequency noise, low frequency squeal and high frequency squeal. The coherent factors with brake’s vibration and noise are analyzed from three aspects: friction properties, braking conditions, mechanical factors. The generation mechanisms of brake’s noise and vibration are summarized from four aspects: stick-slip, sparslip, negative friction-velocity slop, and mode-coupling. The analysis methods: experimental analysis method and finite element analysis method are discussed based on recent researches and patents. Results: Referring to articles and patents, corresponding measures for reducing brake’s noise are provided specifically: surface modification, damping increase, structure optimization and developing novel magnetic- friction compound disc brake. Conclusion: Recent studies and patents definitely promote the study of brake’s noise and vibration. For further studies, random factors should be considered in exploring the generation mechanisms of brake’s noise and vibration. Multi-source compound brake technology may be a useful and effective way to reduce brake’s frictional vibration and noise.