Pad Compounds for Motorsports

Original Compounds | Second Generation Compounds | Next Generation Pad Drawings

Original Performance Friction Compounds

93 Compound (Limited Release)

A perennial favorite among top-level professional drivers, this compound provides consistent high brake power output throughout the pad’s life, from qualifying throughout the race. 93 has the highest average value of torque compared with all other compounds and has proved popular due to its ability to stop the quickest of vehicles under the most extreme conditions.

93 has a progressive torque curve with a slight rise in friction within the braking event. This provides the driver with the confidence to brake late, knowing the pad will not suffer from fade. 93 does require an element of finesse so as not to over-slow the car or suffer from lock-up. 93 is effective throughout the temperature range. However, cooling is recommended to avoid thermal deterioration of the disc. It has very good wear characteristics and is less aggressive on the discs than 83 compound. This compound has been a favorite of CART, GTs and Winston Cup.

83 Compound (Limited Release)

This is the compound that has won more championships than all others. When it comes to slowing under the most severe conditions, 83 compound has a tremendous history of success. 83 has an extremely high level of bite that is capable of withstanding the most arduous of conditions. Very popular choice for NASCAR, GTs and touring cars where a high level of bite and ability to withstand extreme conditions without fade are important requirements.

83 has super high torque and a firm pedal feel, and requires finesse. It has outstanding wear characteristics under severe conditions. The life span of the discs can be compromised with 83 compound, which has led the way for the development of new compounds that have similar performance but increased pad and disc longevity.

80 Compound (Limited Release)

This compound is a favorite for the short track dirt and asphalt racers. It is the lowest torque race compound in PFC's arsenal. It is also used as a rear pad to reduce lock up. This compound has won in venues such as Winston Cup at Martinsville, VA to sports cars at 24hrs of Daytona. (When out, refer to 97)

Second Generation Performance Friction Compounds

Developed to provide the same unrivalled stopping power of previous compounds but with reduced pad and disc wear and improved controllability. These compounds are extremely versatile and suitable for all forms of motor racing, from GTs to single seater to rallying.

97 Compound

This compound was designed as an all-purpose pad where excellent controllability was a priority over ultimate stopping power. Due to its excellent modulation characteristics, this pad has proved very popular with race schools, rallying, and as a rear pad for applications such as touring cars. 97 has the lowest wear of all compounds, typically providing two to three times more life expectancy than competitors. This compound can also dramatically extend disc life.

97 is a medium torque race compound and as a result can provide reduced brake temperatures in situations where poor cooling can result in premature disc failure. 97 has the flattest torque curve of all the Performance Friction compounds. Effective from 167°F and reach 2000°F (75°C, reach 1100°C), 97 uses Performance Friction’s unique lubrication package that maintains a minimal transfer layer on the disc to help prevent brake judder and provide excellent release properties, therefore reducing overall drag in the brake system. 97 is extremely easy on the discs with very low wear.

97 is now being used in Bondurant, Derek Daley, Dale Jarrett Driving Adventure, Panoz, Mid Ohio, and Jim Russell racing schools because of it's long wear vs. performance vs. control and modulation.

01 Compound

Released in 2001,this compound has increased initial bite and improved modulation. The friction level has been increased for the first two-thirds of the braking event, with flatter torque curve and more linear friction curve compared to 83 and 93. This allows the driver to attack the brake pedal later, reducing the time spent on the brakes. Very smooth release will not over-slow the car, and won't overwhelm the car's set-up.

Like 97 compound, 01 has excellent modulation characteristics that improve controllability and driver confidence. 01 uses Performance Friction’s unique lubrication package that maintains a minimal transfer layer on the disc to help prevent brake judder and provide excellent release properties, therefore reducing overall drag in the brake system. 01 is extremely easy on the discs with very low wear. Effective from 167°F and reach 2000°F (75°C , reach 1100°C), optimum operating range is between 860°F and 1004°F (460°C and 540°C).

Next Generation

Performance Friction is constantly working to develop and improve its current range of pad materials.

03 Compound - NEW IN 2003

03 compounds have shown to have higher bite and higher average torque than 02 compounds. The 03 will handle the most severe conditions. 03 have excellent release for improved modulation Very easy on the discs with wear on par with 02 compounds. Very smooth release so as not to over slow or overwhelm the car’s set-up.

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