HEL carbon brake pad shims, Vauxhall Astra J GTC VXR w/ Brembo + 276mm discs 2012-2015

HEL carbon fibre brake pad shims, Vauxhall Astra J GTC VXR with Brembo calipers and 276mm discs 2012-2015

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: Vauxhall Astra J GTC VXR with Brembo calipers and 276mm discs 2012-2015.

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-2-032

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.

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

• Vauxhall Astra [2012-2015]

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.