Investigate Sizes for Caliper Disc Brakes
Caliper disc brakes come in a wide range of sizes. The first consideration when selecting brakes will be the size of your machinery. You need something that fits seamlessly into the body of the equipment on which you plan to install the brake.
It’s also important to note that brake disc sizing impacts the power of said brakes. Most machinery will have the potential for multiple brake sizes.
Small disc diameters are ideal for those who want to stop motion over a longer period gradually. They have a smaller surface area and fewer calipers squeezing onto the brake pad rotors. In some cases, people may use them to supplement larger-diameter brakes.
A larger disc diameter means more grip. They generate more friction, but it’s distributed over a bigger surface area to prevent overheating. Plus, big brakes generate more torque, so motion stops quickly on very heavy machinery.
Choose Quality Brake Material
Applying brakes on industrial machinery generates a lot of friction. The friction causes the machinery to slow and stop. Friction naturally generates heat, so stopping industrial machinery with caliper disc brakes generates much heat.
It’s critical to choose brakes with a high thermal tolerance. Cast iron is one of the best disc brake materials on the market because of its conductivity. It also is extraordinarily durable and can withstand frequent friction with little corrosion.
Understand Floating vs. Fixed Calipers
There are two general kinds of caliper disc brakes: floating and fixed.
Floating brakes are movable, while the caliper/piston is moveable. There only is a piston on one side of the brake, and it moves forward to create friction against the brake. Floating brakes are structurally simple, easy to disassemble and move, portable, and lightweight.
Fixed brakes are stationary and have caliper pistons on both sides of them. Pressing the brake does not move the caliper. Instead, the opposite caliper pistons use hydraulic pressure to move forward and press against the brake disc from both sides.
The brake oil enters from the inlet of the caliper. It stops by acting on the stationary pistons.
Most brakes are floating because fixed brakes are large and clunky. The air circulation is low, and it’s challenging for them to cool down. Still, they do have some industrial applications, such as assembling very large products in bulk.
Get the Right Industrial Brakes
Now that you know some tips for selecting caliper disc brakes, it’s time to invest in high-quality industrial equipment. Our team is committed to providing you with top-of-the-line manufacturing products from trusted providers.
We offer various industrial braking equipment and accessories for diverse applications. Contact Kor-Pak to request a quote for your individual needs.