Clutch and brake supplier Force Control Industries has expanded its Magnashear line with new 460VAC spring-set, electrically-released models featuring pulse-width modulation for lower heat generation and reduced energy consumption.
These brakes leverage Force Control’s proven oil shear technology to deliver precise stopping and repeatable positioning in demanding high-cycling or reversing applications. Because wear is virtually eliminated, the brakes require no adjustments and only an annual fluid change – offering a truly maintenance-free solution for mission-critical uptime.
Common applications include conveyors, cranes, hoists, winches, rail car spotters and dumpers, ship and rail car loaders, pallet returns, elevators, and other severe-duty industrial environments.
Instead of relying on dry friction, the brakes transmit torque through a lubricated fluid film, eliminating wear on braking surfaces, continuously lubricating internal components (i.e. bearings) and ultimately extending service life. A patented fluid recirculation system continuously removes heat – the #1 cause of failure in conventional dry brakes – while fluid damping delivers smooth, cushioned stops that reduce shock loading to the drivetrain. The totally enclosed design keeps moisture, dust, and contaminants out of the brake, ensuring reliable performance even in harsh or washdown environments.
“A thin layer of automatic transmission fluid is placed between the friction disc and drive plate. When the brake engages, the fluid molecules shear to transmit torque and bring both surfaces into synchronous speed,” the company said in its explanation of oil shear technology. “Because the work is done within the fluid layer rather than through the friction surface, mechanical wear is nearly eliminated – and so is the need for air-gap adjustment. The same lubricating fluid also carries heat away from the friction stack and continuously lubricates internal components.”
Magnashear brakes are available with spring-set torque ratings from 3 to 1250 lb.-ft. and can be sized independent of motor horsepower or frame size. For direct motor mounting, the motor brakes feature a “quick mount” design for NEMA 56 to 449T frame sizes and are shipped fully assembled and ready to install. Pre-mounted severe-duty motor configurations are also available.
Source: Force Control Industries