IRC Inc. (Boone, NC) has developed new dynamic braking resistors that employ the company's thick-film-on-steel technology. These new resistors are compact, rugged, resistive elements on steel substrates that are designed to replace the bulky wire-wound resistors traditionally used in dynamic braking applications. IRC reports that the new resistors occupy less than one-quarter of the space required by those using conventional technology.
The IRC dynamic braking resistors feature a power density of 100W/cm2, with standard dielectric ratings of 2,400Vac and 3,500Vdc. The operating temperature range is up to 400 degrees C. Fusing elements can be added to the resistor to provide additional surge and over-temperature protection, and temperature sensors or thermistors can be added to give the system access to closed-loop feedback controls.
"IRC’s dynamic braking resistors offer a flexible alternative to traditional braking modules for the motion-control design engineer," said Pierre LaVignette, sales and marketing director for IRC. "Mechanically, the ability of the steel substrates to be welded, bent and form-fitted for specific applications allows the design engineer tremendous flexibility in reducing the size and weight of the motion-control system in virtually every application. Because IRC’s technology integrates the resistor directly onto the steel substrate, the solid-state resistive element can be designed as part of the motor apparatus or housing; or externally, in an enclosure of a designer’s choice."
