Encoder Brakes
Stearns encoder brakes are solenoid actuated motor brakes with an internal encoder located in a protected environment enclosed inside the brake housing.
Motor brake encoders use optical sensors to measure the speed, direction and angular position of a motor shaft. Then, the data is translated into digital codes for quick and easy interpretation.
Solenoid Actuated Brakes with Internally-Mounted Encoders
These Stearns SABs have encoders mounted within UL Type 1 or UL Type 4X enclosures:
Encoder Brake Features
- All IP ratings available, including hazardous location
- Separate conduit exits are provided for the brake & encoder leads to minimize potential electrical interference
- Choice of popular encoder manufacturers or factory approved equivalents may be used
- Simplified encoder mounting
- Reduced package length - an internal encoder does not add any length to the brake
- Lower installed cost
In addition to the fully enclosed brake with internal encoder options, encoders can be adapted externally to Stearns brakes.
Motor Brake Encoder Mounting Options
Encoders can be mounted on a motor brake in several ways, with options to mount the sensor on the brake interior or exterior. With proper mounting, an encoder will provide the most accurate feedback on motor shaft positioning and performance.
External Encoder Mounting
Stearns brakes offer several options to externally adapt encoders to the brake housing:
- Tethered to the external brake housing: the tether attaches to a fixed point on the brake housing, which along with internal bearings in the encoder itself, prevents the encoder from rotating along with the shaft.
- Bolted to the external brake housing: the encoder is fitted at the shaft’s end and is bolted directly to the brake housing with set screws.
- Mounted on the motor/motor brake coupling: mounting on flexible couplings can help absorb vibrations from shaft movement, but also adds to the package length.
Internal Encoder Mounting
- Mounted to the shaft on a double C-face brake: the entire encoder is enclosed in UL-rated casing between a pair of C-face motor brakes.
To order specialty application brakes such as our encoder brakes, please contact a Stearns representative to make sure you receive the correct brake for your specific application.