Brake or No Brake? Your Guide to Servo Motor Stopping Power
Choosing a servo motor? One key decision is whether you need a built-in brake. It’s not just about stopping; it’s about safety, precision, and control. Here’s how to decide.
The Core Question: What happens when the power is off?
If your answer is “The load must hold its position immediately and safely,” then you likely need a brake. This is critical for vertical axes, robots carrying heavy items, or any application where uncontrolled movement due to gravity or inertia is dangerous. The brake acts as a mechanical lock when power is cut.
Three Key Scenarios Where a Brake is Essential:
- Vertical Movement: Any Z-axis or lifting application where gravity will pull the load down when the motor is unpowered.
- Emergency Safety Stops: For preventing hazardous motion during an E-stop event or power failure, protecting both equipment and personnel.
- Holding Without Power: Applications requiring a load to remain firmly in position for extended periods without servo power, which reduces heat and energy consumption.
When Can You Skip the Brake?
In many horizontal or low-inertia applications, the servo drive’s own electronic control is sufficient to hold the position under power. The motor’s electromagnetic torque can actively resist movement. If your application has minimal external forces acting on it when stopped, a brake may be an unnecessary cost.
Talk to Your Supplier!
Always discuss your specific application details—load weight, orientation, cycle time, and safety requirements—with your technical sales engineer. Their expertise will ensure you make the right call for optimal performance and safety.
Choosing correctly means a safer, more reliable, and more efficient machine.
