Electronic Motor Braking

Abstract

Electronic motor brakes (EMB's) can be applied to both new and existing machines to provide a rapid nonmechanical adjustable braking profile. They can also be used to supplement the braking torque of existing brake motors, forming a complete sequential braking system for demanding applications. The EMB stops without friction or wear. It also provides for an adjustable soft stop and can be mounted remotely from the motor. The new brake stops an ac induction motor by applying dc to the motor stator, thus providing braking torque within the ac motor. The EMB has two adjustments-braking current and braking time-which allow the selection of almost any braking profile. A positive lockout prevents the motor from being restarted during the braking phase. The typical electronic braking current is two to three times rated full-load current of the motor. Thus the heating effects upon the motor caused by the application of dc during the stopping function are minimal, particularly when compared to other electronic braking techniques such as plugging. The EMB becomes a part of the industry's only complete sequential braking package when combined with a motor-mounted friction disk brake which is spring-set and electrically releases to stop the load in the event of power failure and to provide a holding function. Together, the two types of brakes can offer an adjustable soft-stop profile with secure holding, as well as the ability to stop or slow down high inertia loads, yet stop them in the event of a power failure.