Jaw couplings operate with zero backlash

An innovative braking solution for positioning applications using linear motion guide bearings is available from Motion Drives and Controls, the Warwick based brake and clutch specialist. Nexen's RB series spring-engaged/air-released rail brake is designed to match the rail profile of linear motion guides from a wide range of from manufacturers including THK, NSK, SKF, INA, Hiwin and Schneeberger. The rugged and compact brake has similar dimensions to the corresponding bearing carriage and is simply mounted on the existing rail to provide a convenient means for fast response, emergency stop and power-off braking.

The Nexen RB series profile rail brake is particularly suited to z-axis' vertically loaded positioning systems and the spring based brake will provide full braking even under power failure conditions.

The brake may also be used on leadscrew, ballscrew and belt driven positioning systems in place of rotary motor mounted brakes for a more compact solution with improved drive-train backlash and elasticity characteristics.

Rail brakes can also be used for linear motor positioners and actuators to prevent machine movement under power-off conditions and to improve stiffness during heavy machining.

The Nexen RB range includes a unique facing gap adjustment feature that ensures maximum braking contact throughout application life.

This feature also provides a convenient manual release mechanism to aid assembly and to simplify machine maintenance.

The spring-engaged brakes require a clean air supply of 5.5bar for release and are capable of infrequent and noncyclic dynamic braking such as emergency stops.

The brake facings only contact the nonbearing rail surfaces and the design provides an equal pressure on both sides of the rail to minimise unwanted forces.

With a life of over 1 million cycles and with no lubrication or periodic maintenance in most applications, the RB series is available in a wide range of models to provide a holding force from 400 to 2600N.

Ordering and specifying is easy - customers simply specify the linear motion guide manufacturers' model and part number and their braking force requirements.