The most commonly used brakes are friction brakes. They work on the principle that friction can be used in converting the mechanical energy of an object in motion into heat energy. This heat is then absorbed by the brake, which makes the machine to slow down or stop. The major parts of a friction brake are a spinning or rotating part like a wheel, disk, drum or axle, and a stationary component like a caliper. The caliper is forced against the other part to slow or stop it. Although they are very popular, friction brakes also come with disadvantages and are not suitable for everything.
Functionality of Motor Brakes
Today, technology offers several braking systems other than using friction brakes. One of these is the motor brake system. Generally, motor brakes take advantage of a force called “inertia.” This force keeps the shafts of the machine moving even after the electric motor has already been shut off. The device keeps the armature of the motor turning. During this time, the motor serves as a generator. The electric current generated will be obtaining its energy from the machine. However, this braking method is not designed to bring the machine to a quick stop. Because of this, friction brakes are still necessary as a supplement in most applications.
There are available electronic motor brakes which claim to be efficient alternatives to the traditional mechanical fiction brakes. Some of these motor brakes promise less costly downtime. By diminishing the downtime, they can increase your productivity. An electronic motor brake also offers adjustable braking torque. It can also stop your machine quickly without the risk of equipment damage and safety hazards.
These motor brakes are the typical choice in the manufacturing industry. Most machines they use in production are equipped with an electronic motor brakes. These brakes are also suitable for power-generating machines like windmills.