Assessment Of Surface Roughness Sr (Max. 80 Micrometers Permitted)

Information 

• An increase in surface roughness impairs smoothness of braking (rubbing, shaking in steering wheel, scraping noises) and increases brake pad wear. 
• With a roughness (Rk) value of > 80 μm (> 80 micrometers), a precautionary parts replacement is required. 

The assessment is carried out visually, based on the diagram. Two illustrations of the same peak-to valley surface roughness (views 1 and 2) help to make a better assessment.

1. Brake discs that are OK: 
   1. 1.1 Surface roughness (Sr) = 6 μm - see figure-  (view 1)

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      PCCB surface roughness (Sr) = 6 micrometers (view 1)

      Surface roughness (Sr) = 6 μm - see figure-  (view 2)

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      PCCB surface roughness (Sr) = 6 micrometers (view 2)

      New brake disc. Illustration is used for better classification.

      The early stages of roughness are indicated by burnt-out carbon fibres on the surface of an otherwise intact, semi-matt surface.

      The surface feels smooth.

   2. 1.2 Surface roughness (Sr) = 56 μm - see figure-  (view 1)

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      PCCB surface roughness (Sr) = 56 micrometers (view 1)

      Surface roughness (Sr) = 56 μm - see figure-  (view 2)

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      PCCB surface roughness (Sr) = 56 micrometers (view 2)

      In the advanced stages of fibre burnout and the initial destruction of the Si and SiC "matrix", the depressions have become more pronounced. Large sections of the surface are still intact, the depressions form an even, fine-grained pattern.

      The surface still feels matt, however, and the roughness is not yet pronounced.

      No replacement necessary!

   3. 1.3 Surface roughness (Sr) = 72 μm - see figure-  (view 1)

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   PCCB surface roughness (Sr) = 72 micrometers (view 1)

   Surface roughness (Sr) = 72 μm - see figure-  (view 2)

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   PCCB surface roughness (Sr) = 72 micrometers (view 2)

   Borderline disc, which can still just be evaluated as OK. As a result of more advanced damage to the surface, the depressions are larger, and above all deeper, compared with the previous surface condition.

   On the one hand, the more extensive roughness is noticeable (only when a comparison is made); on the other hand, however, as before, "only" depressions can be felt.

   Replacement not yet necessary!

2. Worn brake discs: 
   1. 2.1 Surface roughness (Sr) = 108 μm - see figure-  (view 1)

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      PCCB surface roughness (Sr) = 108 micrometers (view 1)

      Surface roughness (Sr) = 108 μm - see figure-  (view 2)

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      PCCB surface roughness (Sr) = 108 micrometers (view 2)

      Worn surface. Advanced wear has led to a situation where only the remains of the original surface are left.

      It is clear that the roughness is caused not only by depressions but also by bumps.

      Replace brake discs! To do this, follow the instructions provided under

      > 465102 Checking front PCCB brake disc (wear assessment) - section on "INFORMATION "

      In general, the following applies: Brake discs must be replaced on both sides of the axle if surface roughness (Sr) is > 80 μm!

3. Worn brake discs (special cases): 
   1. 3.1 Surface roughness Sr = 108 μm, as for previous disc, but with some of the original friction surface remaining -arrow-  .

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      PCCB surface roughness (Sr) = 108 micrometers

      Replace brake discs! To do this, follow the instructions provided under

      > 465102 Checking front PCCB brake disc (wear assessment) - section on "INFORMATION "

      In general, the following applies: Brake discs must be replaced on both sides of the axle if surface roughness (Sr) is > 80 μm!

   2. 3.2 Surface roughness Sr = 72 μm. Borderline disc, identified by the roughness, but also by signs of wear and connected surface fractures -Arrows-  , > 1 cm² .

Courtesy of PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.

PCCB brake disc

Replace brake discs! To do this, follow the instructions provided under

> 465102 Checking front PCCB brake disc (wear assessment) - section on "INFORMATION "