Spanish brake technology manufacturer Galfer has integrated Japan’s Kashima anodizing finish into its Floatech® Racing disc hub assembly, marking the first application of this premium coating to brake disc components. The enhancement targets wear resistance and friction reduction in high-temperature racing environments where brake tracks and hubs operate under sustained thermal and mechanical stress.
Highlights
- First-ever Kashima finish on brake discs: Premium Japanese anodizing now applied to Floatech® hub assemblies to enhance durability under racing conditions
- Thermal management above 200°C: Floatech® system controls brake track expansion to prevent locking and deformation at elevated temperatures
- Patented floating disc technology: EP4075008B1 patent covers hub design with preloaded spring system that eliminates pad knock-back and maintains alignment
- MotoGP-validated performance: Technology developed with MT Helmets – MSI Moto2 team, 2024 World Champions with Ai Ogura
Technical Specifications and Material Properties
The Kashima finish provides enhanced surface hardness and reduced internal friction within the floating disc assembly. This coating, traditionally reserved for high-end suspension components, now addresses the specific thermal cycling and mechanical wear patterns inherent to racing brake disc hubs.
Floatech® System Architecture
The 2021-generation Floatech® design incorporates several technical elements:
- FEM-optimized hub geometry achieves maximum stiffness-to-weight ratio
- Thermal expansion control maintains dimensional stability beyond 200°C operating temperatures
- Spring-preloaded washer system ensures consistent disc-to-pad alignment throughout thermal cycles
- Elimination of lateral play prevents noise generation and pad retraction common in conventional floating designs
Development and Validation Protocol
Racing Integration
Galfer’s R&D process centers on direct competition feedback loops. The MT Helmets – MSI Moto2 collaboration provides real-time performance data from MotoGP-level racing environments, where brake systems endure repeated high-energy stops and sustained thermal loads.
Testing protocols include:
- Track validation under race conditions with professional riders
- Dynamometer cycling simulating extended braking sequences at maximum temperature thresholds
- Material analysis confirming mechanical integrity after thermal stress exposure
This methodology transfers racing-proven innovations to production applications, ensuring end-user components meet professional performance standards.
Market Availability and Vehicle Compatibility
Galfer will release 10 Floatech® Racing Kashima disc references in December 2025. Compatible applications include:
- Honda CBR 600 RR / CBR 1000 RR
- Kawasaki ZX-10R
- Yamaha R1 / R6 / R9
- Ducati Panigale and Streetfighter models
- Triumph Daytona 675
- BMW S 1000 RR / M 1000 RR
The patent-protected Floatech® system (EP4075008B1) positions Galfer as a technical leader in floating disc architecture, with the Kashima finish representing the latest material science advancement in the racing brake disc segment.
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