101 Ways to BRAKE Your Servo Motor

Frequently, servo motors are returned where the brakes are worn. This is almost always due to the brake being applied repeatedly while the motor/load is moving. The application of a motor brake in a "dynamic / moving" scenario will result in dramatic wear of the brake mechanism. As stated in catalogs and manuals, the motor brake is to be applied in a "static / stationary" condition only. Having the drive/control verify the motor is at zero speed, prior to releasing and applying the brake, will ensure a long service life. Also, timing is critical. The catalog will list the times required for brakes to release and apply. If you issue a "run command" as soon as the drive enables (which typically releases the brake), you could possibly have the motor overpowering the brake for say 0.3 seconds.

A great analogy is your car's parking brake. Will it help slow you down if applied while you are moving? Yes - It will. Will it hold up being utilized this way? No. You are applying the parking brake in a manner for which it was not designed, if used while the car is in motion. Like a motor brake, it is designed to hold a stationary body at rest.

If you have any questions, please know you can contact Kollmorgen Application Engineers at any time, to ensure that the system will perform as required.