From Gorilla Brake & Components comes the new GB23TFT lining, a 23,000-lb, 165AL, high-torque friction formulation using aramid (Kevlar) fibers and a "revolutionary" approach called Transfer Film Technology. Under braking, graphite and other chemicals bleed out of the friction and coat the drum with a 1- or 2-micron-thick film. Rather than a mechanical action between lining and drum, the friction is generated by cohesive forces between two like surfaces.

The result is said to be better lining/drum contact through greater conformability, plus a more stable friction co-efficient at all temperatures. It's also said to bring lower average temperatures with reduced noise, drum scoring, and vibrations. All of that is claimed to provide longer lining life with less drum wear as well.

The lining is designed for high-temperature, severe-duty applications such as refuse, construction, and transit.

Gorilla Brake and Components is a newish player in the market, producing a wide selection of remanufactured, relined, and new brake shoes, brake kits, and brake components for heavy-duty applications. Its manufacturing facility in Brantford, Ontario has all current ISO and quality certifications. Its friction materials "easily" exceed all FMVSS 121 standards, the company says. It's run by entrepreneurs Andre Lalonde, Dan Duganiero, and Brian Brozek.

All the company's brake kits include springs made with premium-gauge steel that's powder-coated to resist rusting and tested to 300,000 cycles, which is double OEM standards.