WARNING: THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS ASBESTOS. IF YOU CHOOSE TO USE THIS MATERIAL, MAKE SURE YOU USE APPROPRIATE PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND TAKE APPROPRIATE PRECAUTIONS. YOU ASSUME ALL RESPONSIBILITY FOR USING THIS PRODUCT.
 
Now here is something we've never seen before, and we bet neither have you!
 
This is composite is made of phenol-formaldehyde resin, with addition of rosin, baryte, and asbestos. Additionally, it is reinforced with brass, which acts as a heat sink that plays a role in surface lubricity of this material under high stress conditions.
 
Originally developed in the 1960s, and designed to withstand extreme friction, pressure, and temperatures as high as 800 - 1100ºC (1500 - 2000ºF), it saw wide use as Soviet aircraft brake pads, aircraft wheels, train brake pads, industrial boring machinery, and other high-friction and high-heat applications.
 
It cuts and grinds easily, and polishes to an absolutely incredible luster. The brass mesh adds a very interesting effect. We’re unsure of the manufacturing date on these, but markings on the blocks seem pretty old, and indicate that this is the Soviet “A” (current production designation FK-16L) variety of this composite, as opposed to the Soviet “B” variety (current production designation FK-24A), which was designed for lower temperatures.
 
A true piece of industrial composite history!
 
Approximately 5.5 x 1.5 x 0.31 inch per scale.