Spring-applied brakes – find manufacturers and suppliers

Spring-applied brakes are safety brakes that are actuated by spring force and can be released by electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic energy.

Their main purpose is to bring or hold machines or vehicles safely to a standstill in an emergency or in the event of a power failure.

Below you will find how they work, an overview of types of spring-applied brakes, their areas of application and the challenges involved in operating them:

How spring-applied brakes work:

1. In a de-energized or depressurized state, springs press the brake pads against a brake disc or brake drum, creating a braking effect.
2. To release the brake, an external energy source (electric, hydraulic or pneumatic) is used to tension the springs and thus release the brake.
3. When the energy source is switched off, the brake is reactivated by the spring force.

Types of spring-applied brakes:

1. Electrically released spring-applied brakes: an electromagnet generates a magnetic field that tensions the brake springs and thus releases the brake.
   They have a compact design, a fast response time and are easy to integrate.
   Used in electric drives, robotics and mechanical engineering.
2. Hydraulically released spring-applied brakes: Hydraulic pressure moves a piston, which tensions the spring and thus releases the brake pads from the brake disk.
   This design is suitable for brakes with high braking force. They are durable and robust.
   Used in heavy-duty applications such as construction machinery or wind turbines.
3. Pneumatically released spring-applied brakes: Compressed air moves a piston that tensions the springs and thus releases the brake shoes.
   These brakes require little maintenance. This makes them ideal for mobile applications.
   Typically used in rail vehicles, commercial vehicles and industrial plants.

Use of spring-applied brakes:

Spring-applied brakes are primarily used in applications where a brake needs to apply automatically in the event of a power failure or emergency shutdown to protect people and machinery.

1. Elevators and cranes:
As holding brakes for elevators.
Safety brakes for cranes and hoists.

2. Robotics and automation technology:
Emergency stop and holding brakes for robot axes.
Brakes for linear drives in production systems.

3. Mechanical engineering:
As safety brakes in machine tools (e.g. milling machines and lathes).

4. Conveyor technology:
Brakes for conveyor belts and transportation systems.
Safety brakes for rail vehicles.

5. Wind turbines:
As rotor and pitch brakes for positioning and safety.

6. Stage and event technology:
Safety brakes for cable winches and lifting systems

7. Vehicle technology:
Parking and holding brakes for electric vehicles and rail vehicles

Challenges in the operation of spring-applied brakes:

• Electrically released brakes require a continuous power supply.
• Hydraulic brakes require a hydraulic system that needs to be maintained.
• Pneumatic brakes require a compressed air supply with sufficient capacity.
• Regularly check the friction linings for wear.

Spring-applied brakes are irreplaceable safety components in many technical areas. Depending on the application, electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically released systems are used.

Here are the most important aspects to look out for when purchasing spring-applied brakes:

When purchasing electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically released spring-applied brakes, there are various technical and economic factors to consider.

• Select the type of release suitable for the application:
• Electrically released spring-applied brakes have the advantage of easy integration into electrical control systems. They allow fast switching times and require little maintenance.
• The disadvantages are their limited performance at very high braking torques and the temperature development caused by the electromagnet.
• They are suitable for machine tools, robotics, conveyor technology and automation.
• Hydraulically released spring-applied brakes allow very high braking torques. They have a compact design and are suitable for high-performance applications.
• The disadvantage is that they require a hydraulic supply and therefore require more maintenance.
• They are suitable for heavy-duty machines, construction machinery, presses and rail vehicles.
• Pneumatically released spring-applied brakes can be released very quickly using compressed air. They achieve a long service life with correct maintenance.
• One disadvantage is their dependence on a compressed air supply. They have a limited braking force compared to hydraulic versions.
• This type is ideal for use in conveyor technology, packaging machines and handling systems.
• Determine the other technical requirements.
• Select the braking torque to suit the load and operating conditions.
• Determine the required reaction time. This is important for emergency stops and dynamic processes.
• Determine the operating medium according to the requirements and the available media.
• Observe the service life & wear resistance.
• Observe the safety requirements & certificates
• Fail-safe function: Brake must close reliably in the event of a power failure.
• Standards & approvals:
• For mechanical engineering: ISO 13849 (safety requirements)
• In elevator technology: EN 81
• For rail & traffic: DIN EN 45545 (fire protection)
• Protection class (IP protection): Dependent on dust, water or chemicals in the environment
• Note the type of installation: shaft, flange or motor integration.
• Is it possible to readjust the braking torque or clearance?
• Note the maintenance effort. In particular the accessibility of wearing parts and the availability of spare parts.
• Create an overall cost analysis:
• Take into account the acquisition costs as well as the maintenance and energy costs (e.g. power consumption for electrically released brakes)

Careful purchasing minimizes risks, improves operational safety and ensures an economical solution. The right choice depends on the requirements in terms of braking force, reaction time and maintenance requirements. Regular maintenance ensures a high level of operational safety and a long service life.

Spring-applied brakes can be purchased from various suppliers. You will find comprehensive information on manufacturers and suppliers of Spring-applied brakes around the world on Exportpages.