Pengaruh Tekanan Kompaksi dan Komposisi Penyusun Kampas Rem Berbasis Serbuk Kayu Mahoni dan Serbuk Kuningan Terhadap Ketahanan Aus

The use of asbestos as the main material in brake pad manufacturing has been discontinued due to its toxic nature and serious health risks, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer, thereby encouraging the development of safer and more environmentally friendly alternative materials. This study developed bio-composite brake pads based on mahogany wood powder as a natural fiber combined with brass powder, using polyester resin as the matrix binder and magnesium oxide as a reinforcing agent to enhance mechanical integrity. The fabrication process was carried out using a compaction method followed by sintering to achieve optimal bonding and densification. This research aimed to evaluate the effects of compaction pressure and variations in constituent composition on the wear resistance of the brake pads. Compaction pressures of 3000, 3200, and 3400 psi were applied with mahogany powder to brass powder ratios of 1:4 and 4:4. Wear tests were conducted on all fabricated specimens. The results showed that the highest specific wear value of 9.2 × 10⁻⁴ mm³/kg.m occurred in the 1:4 composition at a compaction pressure of 3000 psi, while the lowest value of 5.5 × 10⁻⁴ mm³/kg.m was obtained in the 4:4 composition at a compaction pressure of 3400 psi. These findings indicate that both compaction pressure and constituent composition significantly affect the wear resistance of brake pads.