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Power-on electromagnetic brakes engage when DC voltage is applied to the coil. The electromagnetic field attracts the armature into contact with the rotor, generating braking torque. When power is removed, the brake releases. There are no springs holding the brake in the engaged position — the brake is only active while energized.
This behavior is the opposite of a spring-applied power-off brake. Power-on brakes are not fail-safe. They are the correct choice for applications where braking is needed only during active machine operation — horizontal axes, dynamic stopping during a controlled cycle, tensioning, and clutch/brake packages where the brake is one half of a coupled assembly running on two shafts.
Because torque output can be modulated by varying the applied current, power-on brakes also support controlled deceleration profiles in applications where a hard stop would cause mechanical shock or product damage.
Electromate carries power-on electromagnetic brakes from Inertia Dynamics and Ogura Clutch covering single-disc flange-mounted units, shaft-mounted clutch/brake packages, zero-backlash compact brakes, and high-torque wet-type multiple-disc brakes up to 2,304 ft-lbs.
Series Comparison Table
Series
Manufacturer
Type
Torque Range
Max RPM
Voltage
Key Feature
FB
Inertia Dynamics
Single-disc, flange-mounted
2.5–80 in-lbs
—
6, 24, 90 VDC
Bulkhead or motor face mount; UL recognized
SOB
Inertia Dynamics
Clutch/brake package, shaft-mounted
—
—
24, 90 VDC
In-line dual-shaft; clutch and power-on brake in one unit
A power-on electromagnetic brake engages when DC voltage is applied to the coil. The electromagnetic field attracts the armature into contact with the rotor to generate braking torque. When power is removed, the brake releases. Power-on brakes are not fail-safe — they only brake while energized. They are used for dynamic stopping during controlled machine cycles, horizontal axis braking, and clutch/brake packages.
What is the difference between a power-on brake and a power-off brake?
A power-on brake engages when voltage is applied and releases when power is removed. A power-off brake engages when power is removed and releases when voltage is applied. Power-off brakes are fail-safe. Power-on brakes are not. The correct type depends on whether the application requires the brake to hold the load during a power loss — if yes, a power-off spring-applied brake is required.
What is the Inertia Dynamics SOB series?
The Inertia Dynamics SOB is a shaft-mounted clutch and power-on brake package for two in-line shafts. The clutch connects the input and driven shafts to transmit torque. The power-on brake stops and holds the driven shaft while the input side rotates freely. It is a combined unit — not a standalone brake — and is retained on the shaft by an anti-rotation tab.
What is the difference between a single-disc and multiple-disc electromagnetic brake?
A single-disc brake uses one friction surface to generate braking torque. A multiple-disc brake stacks several friction discs to multiply torque capacity within a compact outer diameter. Multiple-disc brakes such as the Ogura MWB series are used where high torque is required in a limited installation space. The MWB series also operates in an oil bath for improved heat dissipation and service life.
Can power-on electromagnetic brake torque be adjusted?
Yes. Because torque output is proportional to the electromagnetic field strength, varying the applied current changes the braking torque. This allows controlled deceleration profiles rather than hard stops. The Ogura AMB series is specifically designed for adjustable torque operation. Standard single-disc brakes at full rated current deliver fixed torque.
What applications use power-on electromagnetic brakes?
Power-on electromagnetic brakes are used in printing and inserting equipment, packaging machinery, factory automation, conveyor systems, medical equipment, lab equipment, and any application requiring controlled dynamic stopping during an active machine cycle. High-torque multiple-disc variants such as the Ogura MWB are suited for heavy-duty industrial machinery and conveyor systems requiring braking torques up to 2,304 ft-lbs.
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