Copper Slip in Brakes: A Risky Move?

For many years, the ubiquitous tin of copper slip, complete with its trusty paintbrush, was a staple on almost every mechanic's workbench. It was the go-to solution for a multitude of tasks, including, for some, the lubrication of brake components. However, as automotive technology has advanced, particularly with the increasing reliance on sophisticated electronics in vehicles, the once-common practice of using copper-based greases in braking systems has become increasingly problematic and, frankly, ill-advised. This article delves into why copper slip is no longer the recommended lubricant for your car's brakes and explores the superior alternatives available to ensure optimal performance and safety.

The Downside of Copper Slip in Braking Systems

While copper slip might have served a purpose in older, less complex vehicles, its composition makes it unsuitable for the demands of modern braking systems. One of the primary issues is its inability to withstand the high temperatures generated during braking. When brake pads cannot move freely within the braking system, it can lead to increased drag and consequently, premature wear of the components. This lack of free movement is often exacerbated by the copper-based lubricant itself degrading under heat.

Furthermore, copper-based lubricants can react with other metals commonly found in braking systems, such as steel and aluminium. This chemical reaction can lead to corrosion. If you've ever struggled to remove a wheel from a hub, suspecting corrosion might be the culprit, a previous application of copper-based lubricant could indeed be the reason. This corrosion can seize components, making future maintenance more difficult and potentially compromising the integrity of the braking system.

It's important to note that the vast majority of reputable friction product manufacturers, including TMD Friction, do not recommend the use of copper slip in brake systems. Their expertise and product development are focused on ensuring that braking systems operate efficiently and safely, and copper slip simply does not meet these modern requirements.

Introducing the Superior Alternatives: Ceratec and Hydratec

Recognising the limitations of traditional lubricants, TMD Friction recommends the use of specialised products like Ceratec and Hydratec when replacing brake pads and servicing braking systems. These advanced lubricants are specifically formulated to address the challenges posed by modern vehicle technology and braking demands.

The Benefits of Ceratec for Brake Pad Fitting

Ceratec stands out as a highly effective lubricant for brake pad fitting, offering several key advantages over copper slip:

• High-Temperature Resistance: This is a crucial differentiator. Unlike copper-based lubricants that break down under heat, Ceratec is designed to perform optimally at high temperatures. This ensures that the braking system's components can move freely, preventing drag and the premature wear that results from it. An efficient braking system relies on smooth, unhindered movement of its parts.
• Non-Conductive Nature: In today's electronically controlled vehicles, conductivity can be a major issue. Ceratec's non-conductive properties mean it will not interfere with the vehicle's sensitive electronics, such as ABS sensors or other control modules. This is a critical consideration that copper slip fails to address.
• Ease of Use and Economy: Ceratec is user-friendly and economical. A single tube of Ceratec can lubricate up to 35 sets of brake pads. Beyond lubrication, it also provides essential protection against scratching during installation and helps to reduce corrosion within the braking system, contributing to its longevity.

The Advantages of Hydratec for Caliper Sliders

Hydratec is another specialised lubricant from TMD Friction, specifically formulated for lubricating caliper sliders and other critical rubber components within the braking system. Its benefits are equally significant:

• Compatibility with EPDM Rubber: Modern braking systems increasingly utilise EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) rubber for seals and other components. While EPDM offers excellent longevity and quality, it is highly susceptible to damage from mineral oils. Many common lubricants contain mineral oil or unspecified petroleum-based oils, which can cause EPDM rubber to swell.
• Preventing Swelling and Seal Damage: Swollen rubber seals can have severe consequences for braking system performance and safety. Brake seals are vital for maintaining hydraulic pressure. If they swell or degrade, they can compromise the seals' ability to hold brake fluid, leading to potential leaks and a significant reduction in braking efficiency. This could mean the difference between a safe stop and an accident.
• Protecting Against Contamination: Properly functioning seals also prevent contaminants from entering the brake fluid. Contaminated brake fluid can lower its boiling point, leading to brake fade under heavy use and unpredictable braking responses. Hydratec, being compatible with EPDM rubber, ensures these seals remain intact and perform their protective function.
• Corrosion Protection: Hydratec also offers excellent protection against corrosion for metallic components within the braking system. Its water-repellent properties help to keep critical parts like cylinder running surfaces and pistons in good condition, ensuring smooth operation and preventing seizure.
• Facilitating Installation: Applying Hydratec to key locations such as cylinder running surfaces, pistons, and sealing elements not only improves the integrity of these parts but also makes the installation of hydraulic brake components significantly easier for mechanics.

Why Generic Greases Fall Short

The temptation for mechanics to reach for a multipurpose grease is understandable, given the variety of tasks they perform. However, as highlighted, many multipurpose greases contain mineral oil or unspecified petroleum-based oils that are detrimental to the rubber components within modern braking systems. This can lead to swelling, cracking, and eventual failure of seals and other critical parts.

Similarly, multipurpose water-dispersant spray greases, while seemingly useful, may not be the most effective or efficient choice when their ingredients are considered in the context of sensitive braking and clutch systems. The components within these systems are highly specialised and require lubricants formulated with specific compatibility and performance characteristics in mind.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Lubricant

The evolution of vehicle braking systems means that the lubricants used must also evolve. What might have been acceptable decades ago is now a potential hazard. Mechanics must be diligent in researching and selecting the correct lubricants for the specific vehicles and components they are working on. The consequences of using the wrong lubricant can range from premature component wear to a complete failure of the braking system, putting driver safety at severe risk.

Customer safety should always be the paramount concern for any automotive technician. The braking system is arguably the most critical safety system in a vehicle. Therefore, the lubricants used in its maintenance and repair must be of the highest quality and specifically designed for the task. Using a lubricant like Ceratec for pad fitting and Hydratec for caliper sliders ensures that the braking system remains efficient, reliable, and safe for the driver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use copper slip on my older car's brakes?

While copper slip might have been used on older vehicles, it's still not recommended by most friction manufacturers due to its limitations, even in older systems. Modern alternatives offer better performance and longevity, making them a worthwhile upgrade.

What happens if EPDM rubber seals come into contact with mineral oil?

Mineral oil can cause EPDM rubber seals to swell. This swelling can compromise the seals' integrity, leading to leaks, reduced braking performance, and potential contamination of the brake fluid.

Are Ceratec and Hydratec compatible with all types of brake fluid?

Ceratec is generally compatible with most brake systems. Hydratec is specifically formulated to be compatible with EPDM rubber and commercially available brake fluids such as DOT 3, DOT 4LV, DOT 5, and DOT 5.1. It's always best to check the product specifications and vehicle service manual.

Why is it important for brake components to move freely?

Free movement of brake components, such as pads within the caliper bracket, is essential for efficient braking. If components are sticking due to lack of lubrication or seizing, it can cause uneven braking, increased wear, and a phenomenon known as 'drag', where the brakes are not fully releasing, leading to reduced fuel efficiency and component damage.

What is 'brake drag'?

Brake drag occurs when the brake pads do not fully retract from the brake disc after the brake pedal is released. This can be caused by various factors, including sticky caliper sliders, worn or damaged seals, or the use of inappropriate lubricants that impede component movement. It results in continuous friction between the pads and disc, leading to overheating, premature wear, and reduced vehicle performance.

In conclusion, while copper slip was once a common sight in garages, its time as a recommended brake lubricant has passed. The advancements in automotive technology, particularly the increased use of electronics and specialised rubber compounds, necessitate the use of modern, high-performance lubricants like Ceratec and Hydratec. By choosing the right products, mechanics can ensure the safety, efficiency, and longevity of their customers' braking systems, keeping them and their vehicles moving safely on the road.