The system works by using a high-resolution optical encoder on the disc, which feeds back speed and position information to the PLC. The Johnson Elevanja software processes this information, compares it to the selected braking program requirement and adjusts the braking force according to the program selected. Also, the system will automatically adjust as the brakes wear and bed in and the whole system is fail-safe as any failure of the system causes the brake to be automatically applied by back-up disc springs.
To date, the brakes have been installed in conveyor applications. “We do a lot of high integrity brakes for nuclear and steelworks cranes and we believe the potential to offer multiple choice stopping arrangements on the hoist is a potential engineers would welcome,” a spokesman said.
