AKEBONO REPORT 2016

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Akebono is working to improve brake performance and to develop the next generation technology. We are also focused on developing products and technologies that will reduce environmental burden. Akebono supplies rotors for trucks produced by U.S.-based General Motors Company. These rotors are nished using the ferritic nitrocarburizing (FNC) process and thus deliver superior braking performance as well as low noise and vibration while boasting an industry-leading product life, which, in turn, contributes to resource savings. Moreover, since FNC nishing provides greater abrasion resistance, it also reduces the generation of dust, which not only often mars the appearance of wheels, but poses an environmental burden.In 2014, new regulations were enforced in California and the state of Washington, the United States, setting limits on copper and other specied substance content in brake pads, linings and friction materials produced on and after January 1, 2014. The regulations are intended to prevent the impact of such substances on ecosystems in rivers and oceans. Moreover, the regulations oblige manufacturers to label their pads and linings using Friction Materials Edge Code Markings that indicate compliance. In response, a number of Akebono’s business units, including its U.S., Japanese and Asian production bases that manufacture friction materials destined for the American market, as well as development, quality assurance, sales and production engineering sections worldwide, have striven to ensure compliance with these requirements through across-the-board collaboration. Looking ahead, we will painstakingly continue to implement measures aimed at complying with state laws and other regulations, such as package labeling statutes.Review of OperationsR&D and Quality ControlWe are developing a new automobile braking system that improves fuel efciency by weight savings. In addition, we aim to contribute to resource savings by reducing the number of parts.This new brake system employs an electric operating mechanism to press down the disc brake pads. The system helps to improve fuel efciency by saving weight. Moreover, this system can contribute to environmental preservation by eliminating use of hydraulic brake uid, which must be properly disposed of whenever repairs are made.In a conventional disc brake there is always slight contact between the brake pads and the rotor, even when the brakes are released. This creates rotational resistance of the rotor and negatively affects fuel economy. Also, if the gap between the rotor and pad alters, however subtle the change, it affects how far the pedal must travel to initiate braking. This reduces driver condence. The low drag caliper incorporates specially designed components to ensure that the pad to rotor gap is precisely maintained at the micron level. In this way, brake drag is reduced, contributing to improved fuel economy.FNC Finished RotorsSatisfying U.S. Regulations on Chemicals Used in Brake Friction MaterialsDevelopment of New Brakes for Greater Fuel EfciencyFNC Finished RotorsLow Drag Caliper■ Electro-Mechanical Brakes■ Low Drag CaliperArrow indicates the electro-mechanical actuatorA copper-free brake pad (prototype pictured)AKEBONO REPORT 201627