Force Control Industries Updates Positorq Tension Control Brakes

Force Control Industries has introduced an updated line of its Positorq tension control brakes designed for precision dynamometer and unwind applications. The brakes provide accurate torque control across the entire operating range down to 0 rpm. Torque output is governed by pneumatic or hydraulic actuation pressure to enable repeatable performance without stick-slip or torque drift.

The Positorq brakes are available with continuous slip torque ratings from 17 lb-ft up to 300,000 lb-ft and continuous thermal capacities up to 3,000 thermal horsepower. The company states they are engineered for heavy-duty tension control environments such as steel mill unwind stands, coil slitters, paper unwind applications and dynamometers requiring high torque at low speeds.

The performance of the brakes is based on the company's Oil Shear Technology which uses a thin film of automatic transmission fluid between the friction disc and drive plate. The fluid transmits torque as its molecules are compressed, nearly eliminating wear and the need for routine adjustments common with dry friction brakes. Totally enclosed housings protect internal components from contaminants like dust, scale and moisture.

The Oil Shear Technology works with a fluid recirculation system that moves fluid through the friction zone to dissipate heat. This process also lubricates internal components including splines and bearings to extend service life. For continuous slip applications, the brakes can be paired with a closed-loop cooling and filtration system or a forced-lube cooling system designed for the specific application.

According to the company, the brakes offer predictable linear control because torque output is directly proportional to the supplied actuation pressure. Multiple friction surfaces provide high torque in a compact, low-inertia package for fast dynamic response. The brakes operate at sound levels typically below 50 dB.