Force Control Industries is producing a maintenance-free, no-adjustment crane brake that was designed to eliminate crane downtime.
Force Control’s MagnaShear motor brake employs oil shear technology, providing longer service life in demanding applications like the frequent start/stop cycles seen on cranes, hoists, and winches, the company said. Oil shear technology transmits torque between lubricated surfaces, eliminating wear on friction surfaces. A patented fluid re-circulation system dissipates heat – eliminating heat build-up – which is the most common problem in dry braking systems, the company said.
This increases service life and prevents adjustment, which also elongates maintenance intervals. The oil shear technology also provides a smooth “cushioned” stop which reduces shock to the drive system, further extending service life of downstream components.
Unlike dry brakes, oil shear technology includes a layer of automatic transmission fluid between the brake disc and the drive plate. As the fluid is compressed, the fluid molecules shear – thus imparting torque to the other side. This torque transmission causes the rotating discs to decelerate against the stationary plates bringing them down to stop. Since most of the work is done by the fluid particles in shear, wear is virtually eliminated. Elimination of wear also eliminates the need for adjustments which are common for dry braking systems.
Headquartered in Fairfield, Ohio, Force Control Industries is a leader in oil shear technology. The company offers a full line of clutches, brakes, and clutch brakes for OEMs in diverse applications.