High-duty-cycle overhead cranes and gantry cranes need brakes that can handle frequent stops without overheating, while still delivering fail-safe holding. Designs with strong thermal performance and consistent torque are typically preferred—often electro-hydraulic disc brakes for high-speed or frequent braking, and properly sized electro-hydraulic drum (block) brakes for robust industrial duty where maintenance accessibility is important.
The “best” design depends on the mechanism. Hoisting brakes must be fail-safe and may need higher thermal rating if they perform frequent dynamic stopping. Travel brakes require stable deceleration and resistance to dragging; for outdoor gantry cranes, corrosion protection becomes a priority. In all cases, look beyond rated torque: confirm allowable stops/hour, friction material grade, wear adjustment features, and monitoring options (wear switches, limit switches). High-duty performance comes from matching brake type to energy load and ensuring the actuator (thruster/coil) can reliably deliver full release and fast response.