Ventilated, perforated and perforated discs - how do they affect braking?

Issues related to ventilated brake discs are still one of the most often underestimated by car users. It is believed that this solution is used in sports cars, is expensive and requires the use of special blocks. In addition, ventilated discs are usually identified with slotted or perforated discs, which are not always the same. That's why in this article, you'll learn everything you need to know before replacing brake system components in your vehicle.

What does "ventilated discs" mean?

What sets vented discs apart from other brake discs is how excess heat is removed from them. Braking is associated with the generation of high temperatures, which negatively affects the operation of the entire system. That is why manufacturers have been looking for a way for years to improve the cooling efficiency of the brakes - and ventilated discs were created. In fact, we are talking about two shields - external and internal - between which there are channels for more efficient heat collection. This has nothing to do with slotted or perforated discs, although of course both can be (and almost always) ventilated.

Ventilated brake discs - why use them?

Therefore, the use of double discs equipped with additional ventilation is useful not only for sports car drivers (or those with a sports inclination) who subject the brakes to extreme overloads, but for each of us. Better heat dissipation means better braking performance – whether you've just started your car or have already covered many miles in dynamic city driving. A stable, efficient braking system, in turn, means much more safety, regardless of speed. Therefore, quality discs equipped with ventilation are a very profitable investment for every driver.

What pads for this type of discs?

It is known that braking performance depends not only on the discs themselves, but also on the pads - and here begins even more understatement from the drivers. If your vehicle does not use perforated or slotted discs, the pad design will be visually identical to solid brake discs. The only difference that allows them to work seamlessly with the ventilated version is the thickness of the pads themselves, which is less than standard, which is a consequence of the greater thickness of the double discs. The difference is small - usually a few millimeters, but using standard pads is not possible.

The right choice of brick - what to look for?

If your car uses ventilated discs as standard, then you should rely on his recommendations when looking for pads. The advantage of such a solution will be the absence of problems with the selection and, as a rule, a greater availability of components on the market. If you decide to replace, look for compatibility with the original model, make sure they are designed for ventilated discs, and choose a reputable manufacturer and supplier. Sometimes the difference between a branded product and the cheapest available on the market is only a dozen zlotys, and the obvious savings translate into faster pad wear and the need to replace them again. If you are replacing discs with ventilated ones yourself, then it is safest to buy a ready-made kit.

Should I change to ventilated discs?

While some manufacturers such as BMW have been using ventilated discs for years, it is still possible to find a solution based on full size discs in many passenger cars, especially low power ones. Installing a vented kit usually means only a small premium over standard discs and can greatly improve braking performance. However, it is worth remembering that the same brakes must be on the same axle in order to avoid problems when braking and equally load both wheels. In addition, it will be necessary to replace the pads with models adapted to this type of disc. However, the final decision should be discussed with a trusted mechanic who will take into account the effectiveness of the braking system.

Proper maintenance of the brake system is a must!

Regardless of which discs and pads you choose, you must remember that this is not enough for your brakes to work effectively. Braking power and proper functioning of the system are also affected by other elements such as brake lines, proper fluid level and condition, or pump operation. That's why regular checks of this critical system in your car should not be neglected - no matter what pads you use.

Ventilated brake discs are a technical solution that effectively improves the thermal performance of the brake system during operation. Not only sports car owners can benefit from their use.