Lift brakes

Hoisting brakes are a critical safety component of the lifting drives used in cranes and hoists. They securely hold the load in position, provide controlled stopping during lowering operations, and minimize the risk of unintended load movement in the event of a drive failure, power loss, or other emergency conditions. A properly engineered braking system protects the operator, the handled load, and the crane itself.

Structurally, hoisting brakes are most commonly electrohydraulically released spring-applied brakes acting directly on the motor or gearbox shaft. Their design is based on the rated load, operating duty, number of operating cycles, acceleration and braking characteristics, and the required stopping distance. A properly selected hoisting brake helps minimize shock loads within the drive system, reduces stress on mechanical components, and contributes to the long-term reliability of the crane.

When replacing or modernizing a hoisting brake, we evaluate not only the brake itself but the entire hoisting assembly. This includes assessing the condition of the brake drum, brake shoes, friction linings, linkages, springs, electrohydraulic thruster, drive unit, gearbox, wire rope, and other associated components. If the root cause of the problem lies outside the brake assembly, replacing the brake alone may not provide a lasting solution or eliminate irregular operating behavior.

Typical signs indicating that a hoisting brake should be inspected include an increased stopping distance, jerky braking, unusual operating noise, inconsistent load holding, frequent need for adjustment, or visible wear of the brake shoes. Timely inspection helps prevent unplanned downtime, improve operational safety, and extend the service life of the entire hoisting mechanism.

We supply hoisting brakes as replacement components, for the modernization of existing cranes, and as part of comprehensive repairs to hoisting systems. Our objective is to provide a solution that matches the actual operating loads, service conditions, and safety requirements for secure load holding. Whether you require brake replacement, the integration of an AKO automatic wear compensation system, or a technical assessment of your existing braking arrangement, we will recommend the most appropriate solution based on the actual condition of your equipment.

For cranes with higher lifting capacities or intensive operating cycles, establishing a regular inspection and maintenance program is essential. A hoisting brake that operates in frequent short-duty cycles or regularly holds heavy loads in position is subjected to increased thermal and mechanical stress. Routine inspections should therefore include not only the condition of the friction linings but also clearances in the lever mechanism, the condition of pins, springs, the brake drum, and the proper operation of the electrohydraulic thruster.

Proper coordination between the hoisting brake and the crane control system is equally important. Braking that is too abrupt or delayed can reduce load-handling accuracy, introduce shock loads into the crane structure, and adversely affect operator comfort. During modernization projects, we assess whether the existing braking system remains suitable for the current operating conditions, hoisting speeds, and the weight of the loads being handled. If the production process has changed over the years, it may be advisable to upgrade not only the brake itself but also the associated drive settings to ensure optimum performance, safety, and reliability.

A properly engineered braking system helps ensure safe crane operation even in applications involving repetitive duty cycles, varying load weights, or demanding operating environments. A comprehensive technical assessment makes it possible to determine whether simple adjustment, replacement of the friction linings, repair of individual components, installation of an AKO automatic wear compensation system, or complete brake replacement is the most appropriate solution. Regular professional maintenance of the braking system also reduces the risk of recurring failures and enables planned maintenance shutdowns to be scheduled outside peak production periods, minimizing disruption to operations.