Why should I use current regulated Digital Power Supplies for electromagnetic brakes and clutches?

Since brake or clutch torque is proportional to current, a constant current is required to provide steady torque. If voltage were to remain constant, the current would drop as the coil resistance increases, therefore, the brake or clutch torque will drift. As an electromagnetic brake or clutch heats up during normal operation, the resistance of the copper coil can increase up to 25%. The increase in the resistance (load) must be compensated for by an increase in the input voltage, thereby maintaining a constant current flow. For the best torque regulation, a DC current regulated Power Supply is recommended. Magtorx current regulated Digital Power Supply, used for controlling magnetic particle or hysteresis brakes and clutches, will provide excellent current regulation for steady and consistent torque output. The DPS has the capability to be programmed for performance matching that is desirable for many applications. Without current regulation, changes in coil resistance due to ...  more