Document OzavGQXYzEB52gqpOYKMrgjgM

We believe there is a basic distinction between processes using raw asbestos fibers and those using asbestos-containing materials. Whenever loose fiber is used, we exercise great caution to minimize the potential release of fibers to the workplace or the ambient environment. The same care is used whenever asbestos materials are handled in such a way that loose fibers could be generated --for example, in cutting asbestos paper or grinding a brake lining. Certain products, therefore, will probably continue to contain or use asbestos. So we should avoid any ban on use and distribution of either original equipment or replacement parts for which there are no substitutes. In most cases, for example, j non-asbestos brake linings, if installed as replace ment parts, will not provide suitable performance in older brake systems designed for asbestos linings. In such cases, the configuration of the entire braking system has to be changed. Changes of this magnitude would require extensive and For many asbestos-containing materials, such costly modifications and testing. Since we cannot as adhesives, brake linings, mastics, and floor recommend substitution of non-asbestos linings in tiles, the asbestos is bound in a matrix. This j brake systems designed for asbestos, an adequate matrix is either flexible--as in tar-based sound j supply of replacement asbestos linings should deadeners-- or highly durable, as in cement I continue to be available. This same situation will asbestos products. In these kinds of materials, hold for friction materials used as clutch facings asbestos fiber generally is not released during in both manual and automatic transmissions. our manufacturing processes unless the material is misused. General Motors does not use body fillers containing asbestos. However, sound deadeners today contain In our view, this is an important distinction. asbestos as an inert filler. The matrix doesn't dry In considering risk analyses, or in considering to the point of becoming brittle, nor is it sanded regulations and standards, we think it is important or ground during vehicle production. Thus, to differentiate between applications involving asbestos fibers used in sound deadeners and other loose fibers and those involving non-friable types of undercoatings really do not constitute, in materials or encapsulated fibers. Such differentia our opinion, a ready source of airbone asbestos tion is not the case today--and it should be in fiber. our opinion. However, we are encouraging development of The techniques and devices used by General substitutes for most asbestos-containing mastics, Motors are designed to control the release of sound deadeners, and the like. For example, asbestos fiber. mineral wools, and glass fibers may be effectively Recently, there has been considerable discussion about the use of substitute materials for automo tive frictiorvproducts. While asbestos substitutes are being used in some light duty brake systems, substituted in some applications. Perhaps some products can be reformulated to eliminate the need for fiber fillers. But we recognize that the substi tute fillers may be more costly. we have not found effective substitutes for many other applications. Various substitutes for asbestos in clutch plates have been investigated, but no suitable alternatives have been found. GLEASON-OOOI43