Power-on brakes – find manufacturers and suppliers

Power-on brakes are electromagnetic brakes that only brake when current is applied, which makes them suitable for applications where the brake is not required in a de-energized state.

They are often used in machines, vehicles or safety-critical applications where targeted braking is required through the application of an electromagnet.

Below you will find the mode of operation and areas of application of power-on brakes as well as their advantages and disadvantages:

How power-on brakes work:

Power-on brakes are based on the principle that an electromagnetic coil generates a braking force as soon as it is supplied with electricity.

The most important components and the process are:

1. Electromagnetic coil: Generates a magnetic field when current flows.
2. Armature plate: Attracted by the magnetic field and generates friction on the brake disk or other mechanical element.
3. Return spring: Ensures that the brake is released when the current stops flowing.
4. Braking force: Is generated by the attractive force of the electromagnet and the resulting friction.

The braking process is therefore active as soon as current is applied. If the current fails, the brake opens and the braking force is lost.

Areas of application for power-on brakes:

Power-on brakes are used in various applications:

1. Industrial machines:
In machine tools or production systems for precise control of movements.

2. Vehicles:
In rail vehicles or electric carts for controlled deceleration.

3. Conveyor technology:
In cranes, elevators or conveyor belts to ensure safe operation.

4. Medical technology:
In medical devices for precise motion control.

Advantages of power-on brakes:

• Precise controllability
• Immediate braking force thanks to current control
• Long service life when used correctly

Disadvantages of power-on brakes:

• If the power fails, there is no braking force (safety risk).
• Energy consumption during braking.

Power-on brakes are ideal for applications where active braking is required. They offer high controllability, but require a reliable power supply to ensure their function. In safety-critical areas, a quiescent current brake is often used as an alternative, which brakes in the event of a power failure.

Here are the most important criteria to consider when buying power-on brakes.

The purchase of power-on brakes requires a precise analysis of the technical requirements, operating conditions and economic factors. An incorrect selection can lead to inefficient operation, safety risks or increased maintenance costs.

• The specific requirements of the application must be precisely defined before an energy brake is procured:
• The braking torque (Nm) indicates the braking force the brake can apply.
• This braking torque depends on the load, the type of application and the speed of the system.
• Typical values range from a few Newton meters to several thousand Nm.
• What voltage is required: 24 V DC or 230 V AC?
• How high is the power consumption?
• Are there special requirements for the power supply, e.g. direct or alternating current operation?
• Does the brake have to open or close within a certain period of time? This is important for dynamic applications such as robotics or CNC machines.
• What is the operating temperature range: -20°C to +80°C?
• Is the brake suitable for damp, dusty or aggressive environments?
• Consider protection classes e.g. IP54, IP65 for water and dust protection.
• Does the brake fit mechanically with the existing design?
• Are standardized dimensions or customer-specific adaptations necessary?
• What type of mounting is planned? Flange mounting, shaft mounting or direct mounting?
• Are there compatible mounting solutions for the existing system?
• Does the brake fit the shaft: Bore diameter, keyway?
• Does a special clutch have to be used?
• How many switching cycles can the brake withstand? Which materials are used, e.g. friction linings with a long service life?
• Are spare parts easily available?
• Is there a modular system for quick replacement?
• Is an additional emergency brake required?
• Does a redundant brake need to be planned?
• Are special safety certificates required, e.g. EN ISO 13849-1?
• Does the brake comply with relevant standards, e.g. CE, UL, ISO 9001, EN 81 for elevators?
• Are there test certificates for quality and safety?
• A good supplier offers technical advice & support - not just a low price!

Technical, economic and safety-related factors play a decisive role when purchasing power-on brakes. A thorough analysis of the requirements and a comparison of different manufacturers will help you make the best choice.

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