Brake/Drag Unit for Tension Control

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Brake/Drag Unit

Definition

A brake/drag unit is a critical component within tension control mechanisms that provides precise, adjustable resistance to maintain consistent tension on materials such as webs, wires, filaments, or sheets during processing operations like winding, unwinding, coating, or printing. The unit operates by applying frictional, magnetic, or electromagnetic resistance to a rotating shaft or drum, creating a controlled drag force that opposes material movement. This resistance can be mechanically adjusted via springs, weights, or pneumatic pressure, or electronically controlled through sensors and feedback systems to maintain preset tension levels. Typical applications include converting, packaging, textile, and wire and cable industries. The unit is available in various configurations, with rated torque ranging from 50 to 500 N·m, operating pressure from 0.4 to 0.8 MPa, and air consumption from 0.5 to 2.5 m³/h at 0.6 MPa supply pressure. Response time is 0.05 to 0.2 seconds, and torque accuracy is ±5% at constant pressure and temperature. Operating temperature range is -20 to 60 °C. For electromechanical units, supply voltage is 24 V DC ±10%, with power consumption of 50 to 150 W at rated torque. Ingress protection is IP54 to IP65 (IEC 60529), and friction material is resin-bonded, asbestos-free with high thermal stability. Weight ranges from 15 to 80 kg depending on torque rating and configuration. Materials used include steel, aluminum alloy, friction materials (ceramic, composite), and electromagnetic coils. Selection should be based on required tension and drum radius, and model-specific values must be verified with the manufacturer or supplier.

Working Principle

The unit applies controlled resistance to a rotating shaft or drum, creating a drag force that opposes material movement. This resistance can be generated through friction (using springs, weights, or pneumatic pressure) or through magnetic/electromagnetic means. In electromechanical versions, sensors and feedback systems adjust the resistance electronically to maintain preset tension levels. The drag force is adjustable to match process requirements, ensuring consistent tension during winding, unwinding, or other operations.

Common Materials

Steel, Aluminum alloy, Friction materials (ceramic, composite), Electromagnetic coils

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Rated Torque	50–500 N·m	Select based on required tension and drum radius.
Operating Pressure	0.4–0.8 MPa	Below 0.4 MPa insufficient braking force.
Air Consumption	0.5–2.5 m³/h	At 0.6 MPa supply pressure.
Response Time	0.05–0.2 s	From signal to full torque.
Torque Accuracy	±5 %	At constant pressure and temperature.
Operating Temperature	-20–60 °C	Outside range may affect seals and friction material.
Supply Voltage	24 ±10% V DC	For electromechanical units.
Power Consumption	50–150 W	At rated torque.
Ingress Protection	IP54–IP65	IP65 for dusty or wet environments.IEC 60529
Friction Material	Resin-bonded	Asbestos-free, high thermal stability.
Weight	15–80 kg	Depends on torque rating and configuration.

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Brake Drum/Rotor Part
Rotating element that receives braking force to create drag

Material: Steel or aluminum alloy
Brake Pads/Shoes Part
Friction elements that contact the drum/rotor to create resistance

Material: Composite friction material
Actuation Mechanism
System (mechanical, pneumatic, or electromagnetic) that applies force to brake pads

Material: Steel, aluminum, electromagnetic coils
Mounting Bracket Part
Structural support for mounting the unit to machinery

Material: Steel
Feedback Sensor Optional
Reads actual tension so the drag can be trimmed electronically.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Tension Control Mechanism

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Brake/Drag Unit

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical rated torque range for a brake/drag unit?

The rated torque range is 50 to 500 N·m, but the specific value must be selected based on the required tension and drum radius. Always verify with the manufacturer for your application.

What operating pressure is required?

The operating pressure range is 0.4 to 0.8 MPa. Below 0.4 MPa, braking force may be insufficient. Confirm the exact pressure for your model.

What is the response time?

The response time from signal to full torque is 0.05 to 0.2 seconds. This can affect tension control accuracy in high-speed processes.

What ingress protection is available?

Ingress protection is IP54 to IP65 per IEC 60529. IP65 is recommended for dusty or wet environments. Verify the rating for your specific unit.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	Up to 10 bar
other spec:	Max tension: 5000 N, Speed range: 0-100 m/min
temperature:	-20°C to 150°C

Brake/Drag Unit

Product Specifications

Applied To / Applications

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

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