In industrial automation, controlling motion isn’t just about acceleration, it’s equally about precise and reliable deceleration. This is where electromagnetic brakes come into play. But what are electromagnetic brakes, and why are they pivotal in various industries?
Understanding electromagnetic brakes
Electromagnetic brakes are devices that use electromagnetic force to apply braking torque to mechanical systems. When electrical current is applied to a coil within the brake, a magnetic field is generated. This field pulls an armature plate against a friction surface, generating resistance and decelerating the moving component. When power is removed, springs release the brake, allowing free rotation or stopping the motion entirely in fail-safe applications.
These brakes are known for their rapid engagement, compact form factor, and minimal maintenance needs. Their ability to provide precise braking in milliseconds makes them essential in high-speed, high-load industrial environments.
How do electromagnetic brakes work?
The principle of electromagnetic braking is straightforward but highly effective. When voltage is supplied:
- The electromagnetic coil is energized.
- A magnetic field is created.
- This field pulls an armature against the friction disc or plate.
- Friction slows or halts the connected shaft or rotating part.
In fail-safe or spring-applied versions, the brake engages when the power is cut—ideal for emergency stops or holding applications. This dual functionality makes EM brakes versatile for both dynamic and static braking scenarios.
Types of electromagnetic brakes offered by Euro HÜBNER Benelux B.V.
Euro HÜBNER Benelux B.V. distributes high-quality electromagnetic brakes from Dellner Bubenzer, a global leader in braking systems. The following series are particularly suited to heavy-duty industrial applications:
SFB series – Spring-Applied Electromagnetic Brakes
The SFB brakes series is designed for applications requiring a fail-safe mechanism. These brakes engage when power is off and release when power is restored. They are compact, robust, and highly reliable in extreme environments. The SFB series of electromagnetic brakes is a trusted safety component used extensively in harbor cranes, winches, and various industrial machinery. They have become the benchmark choice for electric motor suppliers, winch manufacturers, and crane builders worldwide. The brakes are applied in electric vehicles, elevators, cranes, and other equipment where precision in speed control and stopping is critical. Compared to traditional mechanical brakes, electromagnetic brakes deliver smoother, faster, and more accurate performance. Additionally, they can enable regenerative braking, allowing energy recovery that would otherwise be wasted as heat during deceleration.
Key features:
- Torque range: from 6.3 Nm to 1000 Nm
- Resistant to saltwater and corrosion
- Low wear design for long operational life
- Optional manual release mechanism
KFB Series – High-Performance Dynamic Brakes
The KFB brakes series shares several core features with the SFB electromagnetic brakes but distinguishes itself through a range of additional functionalities. Like the SFB series, the KFB brakes are rated to IP67, ensuring exceptional protection against dust and water ingress. Both series are examples of spring-applied, electromagnetically released brakes, a critical design for fail-safe braking systems.
In operation, the electromagnet within the KFB brake holds the braking mechanism open when energised, allowing free rotation of the driven load. When the electrical supply is interrupted, the internal springs automatically engage the brake, pressing the friction surfaces against the rotating component to decelerate or halt motion.
Specifically engineered for demanding, high-performance environments, the KFB brakes deliver exceptional reliability, rapid actuation, and precision control. Their reputation for fast response times and extended service life makes them a preferred choice for applications where safety and operational accuracy are paramount.
Key features:
- Adjustable air gap for optimized wear compensation
- IP67 protection against dust and water
- Optional sensors for wear monitoring
- Compatible with Dellner’s BCU2001 brake monitoring system
Benefits of electromagnetic brakes
Understanding what electromagnetic brakes are also involves understanding why they’re preferred over mechanical alternatives in many industrial setups.
- Quick reaction time: Engages within milliseconds, essential for high-speed machinery.
- Fail-safe operation: Spring-applied variants automatically engage during power outages.
- Compact and lightweight: Fits into tight spaces, ideal for modern machinery design.
- Low maintenance: Few moving parts result in less wear and reduced service needs.
- Smooth braking: Reduces shock loads and system wear, improving equipment longevity.
- Customizability: Brakes can be tailored for torque, voltage, dimensions, and environmental sealing.
Integration and monitoring
Modern electromagnetic brakes are no longer simple mechanical components. In today’s smart factories, they are often integrated into control systems, enabling real-time feedback, condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance strategies. Such intelligent integration improves system uptime, safety compliance, and operational efficiency.
To support this need for more innovative braking solutions, Dellner Bubenzer offers a range of advanced accessories. One such solution is the BCU2001 brake monitoring unit, designed specifically to enhance the reliability and performance of electromagnetic brakes.
The BCU2001 enables:
- Wear detection for friction surfaces
- Continuous brake function checks
- Maintenance interval scheduling
- Emergency condition diagnostics
Implementing a monitoring system like the BCU2001 ensures that any brake wear or malfunction is detected early, reducing unexpected downtime and optimising overall machine health. It’s an essential tool for industries moving towards predictive maintenance and higher safety standards.
Choosing the right brake for your system
Selecting the correct electromagnetic brake means aligning technical performance with your system’s demands. Key factors include:
- Required braking torque
- Duty cycle and response time
- Environmental exposure (humidity, dust, salt)
- Power supply availability
- Brake type (holding vs dynamic braking)
- Space limitations and mounting configurations
At Euro HÜBNER Benelux B.V., our experts help customers evaluate these criteria to identify the most suitable Dellner braking system for their applications.
Why choose Euro HÜBNER Benelux B.V. and Dellner Bubenzer?
The partnership between Euro HÜBNER Benelux B.V. and Dellner Bubenzer offers customers access to premium braking technology backed by local support and industry expertise.
- Over 40 years of motion control experience
- Customizable brakes for any application
- Fast delivery and spare parts availability
- Technical advice and assistance
Whether you need compact solutions for automation or rugged brakes for offshore operations, we provide reliable systems designed to exceed industry standards.
Conclusion: Precision stopping starts here
So, what are electromagnetic brakes? They are the backbone of controlled deceleration, emergency stopping, and static holding in advanced machinery. With lightning-fast actuation, fail-safe functionality, and minimal upkeep, electromagnetic brakes are essential to keeping motion systems safe and accurate.
Backed by Dellner’s engineering excellence and Euro HÜBNER Benelux B.V.’s customer-first approach, our brakes deliver where it matters most.
Need help finding the right braking solution? Contact us to explore the full range of electromagnetic brakes for your application.