It’s all about engagement, says Lenze

Brakes and clutches are widely used in machine building. Be It packaging machines, Intralogistics, woodworking machines, AGVs, medical devices and many more, points out Lenze. “They are as different as the applications. Considering the perfect match will ensure a durable and optimised drive train in your machine.”

Main functionalities of brakes & clutches

Brakes and clutches are used for starting, stopping, positioning and securely holding moving masses in place.

Depending on application and requirements, Lenze says it can offer solutions for:

• Spring-applied brakes
• Tooth clutches and brakes
• Electromagnetic clutches and brakes
• Clutch/brake combinations
• Pole-face friction clutches.

“Our spring-applied brakes (or spring-loaded brakes) are either single-disk brakes or dual disc brakes with abrasive surfaces on the rotors. These brakes are friction-fit and work as fail-safe brakes. In case of power-off, the brake will engage and stop or hold the load in place. Holding/braking torque ranges from 0.12 to 10,000 Nm. We can also provide solutions to meet protection class IP66.”

Electromagnetic clutches and brakes are friction-fit and engage when powered. “With our scalable modular system, we offer a 0.3 – 480 Nm torque range.” The combination of both is called clutch/brake combination and comes in a common housing.

Tooth clutches and brakes positive-fit

“This ensures a very high transmittable torque/ built-in dimension ratio,” adds Lenze. “The core competence in toothing allows our clutches to successfully solve a variety of different tasks. With a special design and innovative technology, we can save up to 99% energy consumption in comparison to standard tooth clutches.

“Our pole-friction clutches are suitable for torque transmission with initial differential speed between the drive elements. They can also withstand harsher environments and are therefore particularly suitable for heavy-duty applications.”

Finding the perfect match

What type of brake/clutch should be used? “To answer this question, we need to understand your application and the associated requirements," concludes Lenze. "The fit of drive components like brakes and clutches affects the overall quality of the drive train and therefore the quality of the whole machine.

"We are specialised on brakes and clutches, as well as on further drive components. Our aim is to provide you with the perfect match for your application. This ensures an optimised mechanical drive train and a high overall machine performance.”