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Electromagnetic Brakes

SEPAC’s electromagnetic brakes are trusted for dependable performance in demanding aerospace, medical, automation, robotics, and defense applications. This page is designed to help engineers and technical buyers evaluate options based on engagement style and torque transmission type. Use the guide below to learn how each brake type operates and explore our product series by functionality.

Engagement TypeTorque Transmission TypeProduct Series
Spring Applied - Power OFFFrictionSEB-Max, SEB, TSEB, UTSEB, MSEB
Spring Applied - Power OFFToothSETB
Magnetically Applied - Power ONFrictionMDB, PMB
Magnetically Applied - Power ONToothMETB

Spring Applied Brakes

Spring applied brakes activate automatically when electrical power is removed, making them well-suited for emergency stops, static holding, and other fail-safe applications. These power-OFF designs rely on spring force to engage the brake and release only when energized.

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Magnetically Applied Brakes

Magnetically applied brakes activate when electrical power is supplied. The power-ON brakes deliver reliable torque and quick response for dynamic stopping, load holding, and precise motion control in robotics and automated systems.

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Our commercial permanent magnet brakes are designed for dry environments and offer a high torque-to-size ratio, with static torque from 0.3 to 103.3 lb-ft. While primarily used for static holding, they can also support dynamic braking with zero backlash.

Tooth Brakes

Tooth brakes deliver positive, no-slip engagement, making them ideal for static holding and precise positioning. Instead of relying on friction, they transmit torque through interlocking teeth, enabling high torque capacity in a compact form.

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Friction Brakes

Friction-style brakes offer reliable performance for dynamic stopping, controlled deceleration, and load holding. They work by pressing two surfaces together using friction material to generate resistance, enabling smooth and consistent engagement.

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Choosing the Right Electromagnetic Brake

Selecting the correct electromagnetic brake depends on several factors: torque demands, footprint, fail-safe requirements, and environmental conditions. The chart below helps identify the right product based on performance priorities:

RequirementRecommended Brake Type
Aerospace Credible Actuation SystemPlaceholder for A&D Line
Emergency stopSEB Series (Spring Applied – Friction)
Compact form factorUTSEB / TSEB
Static holdingSETB / METB (Tooth Brakes)
Manual overrideMSEB
Zero backlashPMB Series
High torque outputMETB / SETB (Tooth Brakes)

Applications Across Industries

SEPAC’s electromagnetic brakes are used in systems where reliability and control are non-negotiable. Their performance and durability make them essential in:

  • Aviation and defense (Flight Control, Missile Fin, and Drone Applications)
  • Medical equipment (surgical robotics and imaging systems)
  • Industrial automation (Actuators, motors, and conveyors)
  • Robotics and inspection equipment
  • Automated Valves and Solar Panel Positioning Systems

Electromagnetic Brake Advantages & Benefits

Electromagnetic brakes offer several advantages over alternative braking options:

  • Reduced wear. Unlike mechanical brakes that rely solely on friction—leading to accelerated component wear—electromagnetic brakes use magnetic force and properly selected friction materials to minimize contact-related degradation.
  • Improved performance. These brakes can be tailored for rapid response, precise engagement, and smooth, backlash-free operation.
  • Lower maintenance costs. With fewer parts subject to friction-based wear, electromagnetic brake systems typically offer longer service life and reduced maintenance needs.
  • Better heat dissipation. Well-engineered electromagnetic brakes handle heat more effectively, maintaining performance even in high-cycle or high-load conditions.

Why Choose SEPAC?

With over 40 years of precision motion control experience, SEPAC manufactures high-performance electromagnetic brakes trusted in critical applications. All products are engineered and built in the USA with in-house design, testing, and assembly.

Alongside our standard offerings, we provide custom brake solutions tailored to unique application needs. Contact us or request a quote to learn how our team can support your next project.