Introducing C7002, an Advanced Solution for Off-Highway Transmissions

In the demanding world of off-highway machinery, transmission failures are costly and disruptive, often leading to excessive downtime for end-users. To solve this long-standing problem, FMC developed C7002, a specialised carbon friction material designed to withstand the toughest operating conditions and provide unparalleled durability.

The Challenge

For many years, OEMs have relied on elastomer/graphite friction materials within planetary transmission clutches. While widely used, this traditional material had a notable weakness: it was prone to premature failure under heavy loads. When these discs failed deep inside a transmission, the resulting repairs were both time-consuming and expensive, often signalled by debris clogging the filters. This led to increased maintenance costs and unnecessary downtime, inconveniencing end-users. 

As friction experts with over 30 years of experience, FMC recognised an opportunity to develop a more reliable alternative.

Engineering a Solution

The development of C7002 was a decade-long project, characterised by continuous testing, refinement and real-world evaluation. Our engineering team utilised extensive laboratory testing, including SAE dynamometer rigs, to simulate the most demanding environments. Every stage of the development process was focused on enhancing friction performance, wear characteristics, and overall component longevity.

What is C7002?

This advanced carbon friction material is crafted from a precise blend of natural and synthetic fibres, bonded together using our proprietary resin system. C7002 delivers exceptional mechanical strength, consistent performance and high wear resistance across a wide range of pressures and speeds. We are proud to be the first manufacturer to successfully bring this level of technology to off-highway transmissions.

Figure 1. Microscopic structure of C7002

Material and Product

Figure 2. Example of an FMC C7002 friction disc.

Proven Results

By choosing to upgrade to C7002, our customers have seen tangible improvements in their machinery’s performance over conventional rubber/graphite materials. The benefits include:

• Higher energy capacity
• Stable coefficient of friction across varying speeds and pressures
• Excellent and predictable wear resistance
• Longer service life
• Reduced machine downtime and lower overall maintenance costs

Typical Applications of C7002

Our technology is designed for the most rigorous environments, primarily serving:

• Transmission clutches for off-highway vehicles
• Oil-immersed wheel brakes for off-highway vehicles

Quality You Can Trust

C7002 represents the culmination of years of rigorous engineering, testing and product development. By successfully addressing the historic shortcomings of traditional rubber/graphite materials, FMC has developed a friction solution that offers the improved reliability, consistent performance and long service life required for demanding off-highway applications.

Ready to upgrade your transmission performance? Download our latest brochure to learn more about our full range of solutions, including C7002. 

FAQs 

Q: What makes C7002 different from traditional elastomer/graphite materials?

A: Traditional materials are prone to premature failure under high-load conditions. C7002 provides superior mechanical strength and more consistent wear resistance, significantly extending the service life of your transmission components

Q: How long did it take to develop this friction material?

A: The development process for C7002 spanned over ten years of continuous refinement, including extensive laboratory testing and real-world evaluation to ensure it could handle demanding operating conditions.

Q: Which industries benefit most from this product?

A: It is designed specifically for off-highway vehicles, particularly for use in transmission clutches and oil-immersed wheel brakes commonly found in mining and construction machinery.

Q: Is this material suitable for high-pressure environments?

A: Yes. C7002 was engineered to provide high mechanical strength and consistent friction performance across a wide range of operating speeds and pressures.