Cranes and hoists commonly use fail-safe brakes on the hoisting mechanism because power loss must not result in load drop. Typical solutions include electro-hydraulic drum (block) brakes, electro-hydraulic disc brakes, hydraulic fail-safe caliper disc brakes, and electromagnetic motor brakes for compact hoists. Many systems also incorporate redundancy: a secondary brake or a separate emergency brake for critical lifts or high-risk environments.
Different crane motions require different brake behavior. Hoisting needs strong static holding and reliable emergency engagement. Slewing and trolley/travel brakes focus on smooth control to reduce load swing and improve positioning. Rail-mounted cranes may also require storm brakes or rail clamps for parking and wind safety.
When specifying crane brakes, consider: required torque with safety factor, duty class (stops/hour), response time, environment (dust, salt spray, temperature), and compliance with applicable lifting standards. Also ensure compatibility with the control system—some brakes rely on coordinated drive control for smooth stopping, while still retaining fail-safe capability for emergencies.
