Sep 2, 2026
Copper-Based vs Iron-Based vs Paper-Based Friction Plates: How to Specify the Right Material
Compare copper-based, iron-based, and paper-based friction plates by load, heat, and oil compatibility. A specifier's guide to choosing the right wet friction material for clutches and transmissions.
Wet clutch and transmission friction plates are not interchangeable commodities. The friction material you specify decides how much torque the pack can hold, how fast it sheds heat, and how smoothly the clutch engages under load. For buyers sourcing replacement plates, the first and most consequential decision is the base material: copper-based, iron-based, or paper-based. This guide compares the three on the factors that actually affect service life in the field.