Clamshell cup friction article and method

Abstract

A friction disk assembly comprises an annular structural carrier including a plurality of recessed and/or raised regions and torque drive notches spaced around its circumferential direction, and a segmented friction lining mounted on the carrier. Each segment of the friction lining comprises a clamshell-shaped friction cup including a pair of cup members containing a puck of friction material, each pair of cup members being joined by a deformable strap and together defining a U-shaped configuration. The obverse side of each cup member includes projections and/or depressed areas that are complementary in size, shape and location to the recessed and/or raised regions of the associated carrier operatively engaged therewith to prevent movement of the lining relative to the carrier during a braking event. The carrier may be formed of steel or other suitable structural material. The lining may be formed of suitable friction material, e.g. sintered metal. The lining may be retained to the carrier by rivets that pass through lugs extending from the cup members. The friction pucks are provided with a structural casing configured to engage the recessed and/or raised regions of the carrier. The assembly may be refurbished by simple replacement of the worn lining together with its associated structural casing.