
These brakes use a single plate friction surface to engage the input and output members of the brake. This style of brake is used in applications ranging from copy machines to conveyor drives. They are the most common type of electromechanical brakes. Other applications for these brakes could include packaging machinery, printing machinery, food processing machinery and factory automation.
Features
- Zero backlash armature available on some units: The armature is mounted to the hub by a special leaf spring to provide minimal backlash and no armature rattle.
- Automatic air gap available on some units: Clutch air gap automatically adjusts as the brake wears, allowing for a consistent air gap that maintains a consistent time to stop.
- Fast Response: The single friction plate design allows for a very fast response in high cycle applications.
- Smooth, quiet operation: Whether automatic air gap or zero backlash is chosen, brake armatures engage smoothly, eliminating chattering noise, helping in sustaining quieter operation.
Engagement
Electromechanical brakes operate via an electric actuation, but transmit torque mechanically. When voltage/current is applied, the coil is energised creating a magnetic field. This turns the coil into an electromagnet that develops magnetic lines of flux. The magnetic flux attracts the armature to the face of the brake. The armature and hub are normally mounted on the shaft (customer supplied) that is rotating. Since the brake coil is mounted solidly, the brake armature, hub and shaft come to a stop in a short amount of time.
Disengagement
When current/voltage is removed from the brake, the armature is free to turn with the shaft. In most designs, springs hold the armature away from the brake surface when power is released, creating a small air gap.
Cycling
Cycling is achieved by turning the voltage/current to the coil on and off. Slippage should occur only during deceleration. When the brake is engaged, there should be no slippage once the brake comes to a full stop.