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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, 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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Product Series:

SEB Series

SEB Series

Standard spring-applied friction brake designed for both dry and oil environments. Suitable for dynamic stopping and holding.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
TSEB Series

TSEB Series

A compact version of the SEB, offering a high torque-to-size ratio for space-constrained systems.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
UTSEB Series

UTSEB Series

Ultra-thin design with PWM voltage control to reduce energy consumption.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
MSEB Series

MSEB Series

Adds a manual release feature for maintenance/safety access.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

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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Product Series:

MDB Series

MDB Series

Magnetic friction brake commonly used in robotics, actuators, and automation systems.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
PMB Series

PMB Series

Permanent magnet design with high torque density and zero backlash. Engages when power is removed and releases when energized—making it ideal for applications needing precision holding.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
METB Series

METB Series

Magnetically applied tooth brake compatible with both dry and oil environments. Offers flexible piloting options, including on the outer diameter or magnet body bore. Available in numerous options.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

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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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Product Series:

SETB Series

SETB Series

Spring-applied tooth brake designed for robotic joints and actuators.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
METB Series

METB Series

A versatile brake compatible with both dry and oil environments, offering flexible piloting options and a variety of configurations.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

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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Product Series:

SEB Series

SEB Series

Spring-applied friction brake for dynamic braking and static holding.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
TSEB Series

TSEB Series

Space-saving design with reliable torque output.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
UTSEB Series

UTSEB Series

Energy-efficient model with low power requirements and ultra-thin construction.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
MSEB Series

MSEB Series

Friction brake featuring manual override for safe maintenance procedures.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
MDB Series

MDB Series

Magnetically engaged friction brake for continuous motion control in automation.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
PMB Series

PMB Series

Permanent magnet friction brake that provides high torque and zero backlash.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

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.