Caliper brakes: Hydraulics versus pneumatics

April 1, 2011
When it comes to choosing the right brakes for an application, which is better — pneumatically or hydraulically released technology? Learn where each type is most appropriate.

Caliper disc brakes are among the most tried and true braking technologies in industrial use. Designed to clamp onto both sides of discs or flat rails, these specialized brakes create friction that exerts a braking force on the disc attached to the rotating shaft, or on a rail or fin in linear motion applications. Caliper brakes are well suited for a range of industrial uses, such as construction machinery, material handling equipment, metalworking machinery, automated assembly machines, and other heavy equipment.

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