Track brakes

Travel brakes are a key safety feature of crane and trolley drives. They ensure controlled stopping, limit overrun, and reliably secure the equipment when stationary. A correctly designed brake protects both the structure and the drive from shock, helps maintain precise load positioning, and reduces the risk of unwanted movement during power failure, operator error, or changes in operating conditions.

When designing, we base our work on the specific type of crane, load, travel speed, required dynamics, frequency of work cycles, and the method of control. The connection to the motor, gearbox, travel wheels, rails, and the overall condition of the crane runway are also important. The aim is for the travel to be safe, smooth, operationally stable, and at the same time have reasonable demands on adjustment, inspection, and maintenance.

When replacing or upgrading a travel brake, we don't just assess the brake element itself, but the entire travel assembly. We monitor braking efficiency, smooth engagement, the condition of the lining, springs, linkages, jaws, drum, brake release mechanism, and its connection to the drive. If the problem is caused by poor adjustment, wear of the travel wheels, or an imprecise path, simply replacing the brake may not solve the root cause of the fault long-term.

We supply travel brakes as spare parts, for complete brake system replacements, and as part of crane repairs and modernisations. We prepare solutions based on the actual condition of the equipment, operational requirements, and the required level of safety. A correctly chosen brake helps to limit jolting, improve stopping accuracy, reduce drive wear, and ensure reliable crane operation during daily use.

For operations with higher usage intensity, it is also important to set regular inspections. These inspections primarily monitor the wear of the lining, play in the lever mechanism, the condition of springs, pins, and linkages, the functionality of the brake release mechanism, and the brake's ability to repeatedly stop the equipment in the desired position. Timely inspection helps prevent a deterioration of braking performance, irregular operation, or excessive stress on the drive.

The correct choice of braking torque is also important. Too weak a brake may not safely stop the equipment, while overly aggressive settings can cause jolts, increased stress on the structure, and faster wear on connected parts. Therefore, the braking system needs to be matched to the travel speed, crane weight, operating mode, and the operator's requirements for precise positioning.

If prolonged overrun, jerky stopping, increased noise, irregular braking or frequent need for adjustment occur during operation, it is advisable to check the brake technically. Depending on the results of the inspection, replacement of the linings, adjustment, repair of individual parts, topping up the AKO system or complete replacement of the brake with a more suitable design can be recommended.

For older cranes, it is also worthwhile to compare the original technical solution with current operations. If the weight of handled loads, frequency of use, or travel speed have changed, the original brake may no longer meet today's requirements. Modernisation can then increase safety, reduce maintenance demands, and extend the service life of the entire travel system. Therefore, we always design based on the actual equipment, not just the brake's catalogue designation.