ArvinMeritor’s Aftermarket business has introduced hydraulic disc brake rotors with a new, patented coating, called ZXP3, designed to protect against oxidation and corrosion. The initial launch will cover three part numbers, with more models to be released throughout the year.

The new coating will first be applied to rotors with a cast-in ABS tone ring, while other applications for the coating are under development. The coated rotors are available under the Meritor and Euclid brands through aftermarket distributors and OE truck dealers throughout North America now.

Brake rotors are made of iron, and rust is a common problem particularly in the tone ring area. It forms quickly on bare metal and can lead to diminished ABS braking performance, corrosion, and metal fatigue. ArvinMeritor’s coating process is said to ensure that the rotor receives a complete application.

The company says the coating adheres and seals thoroughly — even the outside edge of the cooling veins gets coated — and is claimed not to wear or chip when exposed to heat, chemical de-icers, wash solutions, pebbles, sand, or grime. ArvinMeritor claims “improved service life over uncoated rotors.”

These new rotors are said to be "competitively priced."

Corrosion-resistant coatings have become something of a specialty for the company, which last year introduced remanufactured brake shoes with PlatinumShield coating to protect against micro-abrasion and rust-jacking.