since a couple of people have asked – what effect does pad size/shape/area make to our spreadsheet?
Nada. As far as friction between two sliding surfaces, the amount of friction resistance is calculated by the force multiplied by the coefficient of friction. You will notice that “friction area” is not a factor. Consider a cube shaped box with a certain weight, on a rug, that you will drag across the floor. Now, consider a box of the same weight that is much smaller. Which will be more difficult to drag? (Answer: same difficulty.) That is not to say that there is no difference between pad sizes. Larger pads spread the heat over a larger area. Pads participate in cooling, to some effect. And, larger calipers (4, 6, 22 pot) calipers, just based on the size they are, use either larger pads or more pads, just so the pistons will have something to press against. The shape of most pads is the size that fits in the caliper (or caliper mounting bracket). Most are some form or rectangle, but curved to match the diameter of the rotor. Some look a little more unusual than others, but its not to
