HEL carbon fibre brake pad shims, Alfa Romeo 147 3.2 GTA 2003-2010
HEL Performance carbon fibre thermal shims fit between the brake pads and caliper pistons to reduce heat transfer into the caliper. This kit is intended for the following application: Alfa Romeo 147 3.2 GTA 2003-2010.
The shims are manufactured from high-quality carbon fibre combined with HEL Performance’s specially developed non-combustible resin, which withstands temperatures above 400 °C. The cured resin may be yellow or orange depending on the production batch.
Carbon fibre has a thermal conductivity of approximately 1 W/mK, compared with around 22 W/mK for titanium and 65 W/mK for steel. This helps slow heat transfer from the brake pad to the caliper pistons. Each shim weighs approximately 3.5 grams, compared with a typical 17 grams for a titanium shim.
- Application-specific carbon fibre thermal shims
- Fit between the brake pads and caliper pistons
- Help reduce heat transfer into the brake caliper
- Help protect caliper seals from excessive heat
- Temperature resistance above 400 °C
- Very low thermal conductivity of approximately 1 W/mK
- Weight of approximately 3.5 grams per shim
- Approximately 79% lighter than a typical titanium shim
- Suitable for road, track and competition use
- May be reused during a brake-pad change if the shims remain in good condition
- HEL Performance part number HCFS-2-001
Manufacturer temperature test
In HEL Performance’s initial test, a professional driver evaluated the shims in a range of road and track conditions. The front-caliper temperature fell by an average of approximately 49 °C.
| Measurement | Standard | HEL carbon fibre shims | Temperature reduction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front right | 217.8 °C | 165.6 °C | 52.2 °C (24%) |
| Front left | 224.8 °C | 178.9 °C | 45.9 °C (20.4%) |
| Rear right | 138.9 °C | 116.6 °C | 22.3 °C (16.1%) |
| Rear left | 131.1 °C | 113.3 °C | 17.8 °C (13.6%) |
The achieved temperature reduction depends on the vehicle, braking system, pads, speed and operating conditions. The table presents the results measured in the manufacturer’s own test.
Example compatible vehicles
- Alfa Romeo 147 [2003-2010]
Check the part number and the exact brake-pad and caliper design before ordering. Brake specifications can vary by engine, model year and factory equipment even within the same vehicle model.


