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Re: To paint, or NOT to paint

To: Malaboge@aol.com
Subject: Re: To paint, or NOT to paint
From: Simon Favre <simon@mondes.com>
Date: Tue, 26 Oct 1999 14:02:20 -0700
Actually, this IS a black and white decision. ;=) Physics tells us that
a black body will be the most efficient at radiating heat. Now, in a
race car at speed, the question is whether the air flow moving over the
surface of the caliper takes more heat away than the radiation, and is
the radiation of heat significant? Note that Brembo Aluminum calipers
often appear in a black anodized finish. Of course, you see red calipers
and silver calipers, etc. etc. etc. Given sufficient air ducting, the
color may not make a whit of difference. If you want the calipers to
shed as much heat as possible, then I would recommand a flat black or 
satin black finish. A shiny, glossy finish can actually reflect heat
back in, even if it's black.

Malaboge@aol.com wrote:
> 
> I know this will bring out the zealots from all camps...but, what is the
> opinion of whether or not to paint brake calipers?
> And if the opinion is for paint, should it be black or white?
> 
> My first thought are to leave them natural as that will probably allow the
> most heat transfer to the air, but they will probably end up rusty and is
> that better or worse?
> 
> Never a black or white decision...
>          Nick of Nor Cal

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