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The rotor is a parallel-faced circular plate which is clamped by the
pads in order to slow the vehicle. The rotor often has a series of
vents which allow it to be cooled by outside air. The surfaces of the
rotor are "turned" (machined) when the brake pads are replaced, in
order to remove the "glazed" surface which forms with extended use.
The turning process also "trues" the disc, which eliminates the
pulsations experienced when the rotor is warped. Warped rotors give a
slight tugging when the brakes are applied. If the rotor has been
turned several times, it may become too thin to resurface, and
require replacement. Semi metallic pads give good performance, longer
replacement intervals and reduced "fade", but they also wear down the
rotor more quickly than organic (non-metallic) pads.
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