As industrial users continue shifting toward electrification, energy-efficient drive systems, and reduced maintenance strategies, OEMs and plant operators are demanding braking solutions that run cooler, last longer, and eliminate frequent adjustments. To meet these needs, Force Control Industries has expanded its MAGNASHEAR® line with new 460VAC spring-set, electrically-released models featuring pulse-width modulation for lower heat generation and reduced energy consumption.

These brakes leverage Force Control’s proven Oil Shear Technology to deliver precise stopping and repeatable positioning in demanding high-cycling or reversing applications. Because wear is virtually eliminated, MAGNASHEAR® brakes require no adjustments and only an annual fluid change—offering a truly maintenance-free solution for mission-critical uptime.

Common applications include conveyors, cranes, hoists, winches, rail car spotters and dumpers, ship and rail car loaders, pallet returns, elevators, and other severe-duty industrial environments.

Unique Design Ensures Long Service Life

Instead of relying on dry friction, MAGNASHEAR® brakes transmit torque through a lubricated fluid film, eliminating wear on braking surfaces, continuously lubricating internal components (i.e. bearings) and ultimately extending service life. A patented fluid recirculation system continuously removes heat — the #1 cause of failure in conventional dry brakes — while fluid damping delivers smooth, cushioned stops that reduce shock loading to the drivetrain. The totally enclosed design keeps moisture, dust, and contaminants out of the brake, ensuring reliable performance even in harsh or washdown environments.

How Oil Shear Works

A thin layer of automatic transmission fluid is placed between the friction disc and drive plate. When the brake engages, the fluid molecules shear to transmit torque and bring both surfaces into synchronous speed. Because the work is done within the fluid layer rather than through the friction surface, mechanical wear is nearly eliminated — and so is the need for air-gap adjustment. The same lubricating fluid also carries heat away from the friction stack and continuously lubricates internal components.

Suitable for a Wide Range of Motor Sizes

MAGNASHEAR® brakes are available with spring-set torque ratings from 3 to 1250 lb-ft and can be sized independent of motor horsepower or frame size. For direct motor mounting, MAGNASHEAR® motor brakes feature a “quick mount” design for NEMA 56 to 449T frame sizes and are shipped fully assembled and ready to install. Pre-mounted severe-duty motor configurations are also available.
Headquartered in Fairfield, Ohio, Force Control Industries is the world leader in Oil Shear Technology, offering a full line of clutches, brakes, and clutch brakes for OEMs in diverse applications. Their manufacturing campus includes three manufacturing facilities with over 100,000 square feet of manufacturing space along with engineering, design, customer support and administrative offices.