Thruster

What is a Thruster?

In the context of industrial braking, a Thruster is a self-contained, high-performance electro-hydraulic actuator. It is the “engine” of the braking system, designed to generate a powerful and smooth linear force. Its primary function is not to apply the brake, but rather to work against powerful springs to release it. This fundamental principle is the key to creating a “fail-safe” braking system.

The Working Principle:

An electro-hydraulic thruster contains an electric motor, a centrifugal pump, and a hydraulic piston, all enclosed within a robust, sealed housing. The operation is elegant and reliable:

1. Power On: The internal electric motor spins up, driving the pump.
2. Pressure Generation: The pump pressurizes the hydraulic fluid (oil) within the unit.
3. Actuation: This fluid pressure acts on a piston, driving it upwards and extending a push-rod.
4. Brake Release: The extended push-rod acts on the brake’s lever arms, overcoming the force of the mainspring and releasing the brake shoes or pads from the wheel or disc.

When power is cut, the motor stops, the hydraulic pressure dissipates, and the mainspring immediately and automatically forces the piston back, engaging the brake.

Key Advantages of Electro-Hydraulic Thrusters:

• Fail-Safe by Nature: Their design is integral to the “spring-applied, power-released” safety principle, ensuring automatic braking during a power failure.
• Smooth & Stable Operation: The hydraulic mechanism provides a soft, jolt-free actuation, preventing mechanical shock to the drivetrain and the load.
• Built-in Overload Protection: If the brake movement is obstructed, the motor will simply stall under load without burning out, offering inherent protection.
• Durability and Long Life: As a fully enclosed and lubricated system, it is exceptionally reliable and requires minimal maintenance, even in harsh industrial environments.

Applications:

Electro-hydraulic thrusters are the standard drive element for a vast range of heavy-duty, fail-safe industrial brakes. They are the go-to solution for machinery where safety and reliability are non-negotiable.

The content listed below features our industry-leading thruster models, including the Ed and YT1 Series, as well as technical articles and guides related to their operation, maintenance, and integration with high-performance braking systems.