The noise level, dust level, and pad life are all improved with smooth rotors. This might be the ideal option for those who own a premium vehicle that is seldom driven violently. Used by racers who go long distances without changing their brake pads and hence must compromise on stopping power. In most cases, this is the most inexpensive choice.
Although the OEM rotors may have straight vanes for internal cooling, aftermarket rotors may be purchased with directional vanes (a left and a right component number). Superior cooling performance compared to standard rotors.
What is the purpose of rotors and how do they work?
Rotors are intended to transform the kinetic energy of forward motion into the thermal energy necessary to stop the vehicle). Since the rotors are what do the actual work of dispersing the heat, you should pay attention when shopping for a decent aftermarket replacement.
Brake fade, increased disc brake pad wear, and, in extreme circumstances, front end wobbling may all result from rotors that are too hot to the touch. Choosing the right rotor for your brakes ensures that they will operate together smoothly and for a longer period of time.
A normal parts store clerk may provide various options for brake pads and then recommend a rotor to match your requirements. The disc pads themselves may be produced from a variety of composite materials, and there are frequently many classes of pad available, so there may be as many as eight distinct alternatives to choose from.
Rotor classifications
Slotted, drilled, cross-drilled, and hybrid slotted/cross-drilled performance rotors are all on the market. The hub assembly and the braking surfaces of two-piece performance rotors are often constructed of different metals, each with their own characteristics and advantages. Slotted, drilled, and cross-drilled rotors are used to increase the surface area of the braking rotors that can be cooled by air flow.
Slotted rotors are designed with carved grooves that allow cold air to enter the gap between the brake pad and rotor, resulting in more efficient heat dispersion and a more comfortable braking experience. They also do a better job of spreading out things like brake dust, snow, and rain.
Slotted brake rotors may make greater noise than non-slotted ones because of the increased air turbulence they induce. This is because the slots are curved rather than straight, directing the maximum amount of air to the braking surface even while the disc rotates. Also, this is why it’s crucial to always install a slotted rotor on the correct side.
Rotors with slots and holes
Slotted and drilled rotors provide a happy medium, with advantages from both types of rotors. These work well on the street but are not recommended for racing vehicles. Slotted and drilled rotors are being installed as original equipment on luxury vehicles such as BMWs and Mercedes-Benzes. Instead of engineering, it is marketing that is driving this.
Some people believe that drilled and slotted rotors perform better than drilled rotors, however, this is not the case.
Rotor assemblies that are split into two halves that float freely in the air
2-Piece Iron “friction rings,” which may be swapped out when worn, are attached to aluminum caps or mounting bells using float hardware to create a rotor that can float. A 10-pound weight reduction per rotor is possible with 2-piece designs.
The friction ring may expand freely when it warms up because of the way its design is laid out. This lessens the likelihood of the rotor shattering under the stress of racing, which may lead to tapering pad wear and a mushy pedal. Wheel bearings may last longer since less heat is transferred to them through conduction. When possible, race vehicles should equip themselves with floating rotors.
