Differences between spring-loaded brakes and permanent magnet brakes

Even though the brake types mentioned are mathematically evaluated within the same dimensioning process, the differences between the two functional principles must nevertheless be taken into account during dimensioning and evaluated with respect to their suitability for the application.

• Spring‑loaded brakes, particularly those of the BP.., BR.., BY.., and BZ.. series, are designed according to the normally energized principle, meaning that the brake applies automatically when the power supply is disconnected. This principle is often referred to with the term "fail-safe".
• Permanent magnet brakes, on the other hand, in particular those from the BK.. and BKB.. series, can experience error states in which, despite the voltage supply being disconnected, the brake does not close automatically.

In general, a permanent-magnet brake cannot be used as the sole safety braking mechanism (if it can be used at all) in safety‑related applications involving axles/systems that have increased requirements regarding personal safety and protection of property.

The system manufacturer is primarily responsible for designing a safety concept that complies with the requirements in this regard.