Product Safety

IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS!

Please read carefully prior to using Selectpart products! The operating characteristics for most brake and clutch friction materials are interchangeable. The operating principle is the same for all units regardless of type. These instructions can be applied to any Selectpart product.

  • ALWAYS check the brake and/or clutch for proper rotational clearances rotating the unit BY HAND prior to starting the machine. If the unit has been properly installed, all rotating members will turn freely without interference from stationary members (consult the manufacturer's installation instruction manual).
  • BEFORE starting the machine, be sure that all bearings have been properly lubricated.
  • NEVER operate any machine without guards in place, or with any obstructions to the brake or clutch unit. NEVER operate a brake or clutch unit with damaged components. Injury may result.
  • It is recommended that the brake or clutch unit be used with an automatic tension control system to ensure proper air pressure control. Most diaphragm type piston assemblies are rated for a maximum of 75 PSIG (5 bar). At no time should the operating pressure exceed 100 PSIG (7 bar). Air pressure should be decreased in a linear fashion from full roll diameter to core. The highest possible pressure should be maintained throughout the cycle. Care should be observed when manually regulating air pressure. Consult the manufacturer's engineering specifications for torque vs. air pressure charts and other information.
  • Many standard brakes and clutches are equipped with valves to control individual cylinder operation. Cylinders may be turned on or off according to the desired tension range. It is beneficial to performance to maintain the highest possible air pressure throughout the operating cycle. If the operating pressure is low, cylinders may be turned off to increase the pressure while maintaining the desired tension level. Various friction pad coefficients are available to optimize pressure range and unit performance. Standard coefficients are 0.45 (high), 0.30 (medium), and 0.10 (low). Various friction material compounds are also available to suit specialized applications.
  • NEVER OPERATE A BRAKE OR CLUTCH UNIT IN ANY WAY OTHER THAN ITS INTENDED FUNCTION. NEVER EXCEED THE OPERATING PARAMETERS SET FORTH BY THE PRODUCT AND ITS APPLICATION. If the operating parameters need to be changed, consult the manufacturer's applications engineering department to verify the proper sizing of the equipment. Selectpart friction materials are rated to operate to a maximum temperature of 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). Consult Selectpart if operating temperatures exceed this rating.
  • Friction pads should be changed when 0.125" (3.2 mm) of the pad material, including the steel backing plate, remains to be worn. NOTE: Consult product specifications for new material thickness.
  • When changing friction pads, it is beneficial to sand the cast iron friction discs (rotors) with emery cloth or sand paper. This removes glazing that may have built up during operation. Always wipe the discs with a clean cloth after sanding. Used friction pads may be sanded to remove glazing as well. Always clean the pads of dust prior to re-installation. To maintain acceptable performance levels ALWAYS keep the brake or clutch unit clean and free of grease, paint, water, oil and other foreign substances.
  • WARNING: Air cooled brakes and clutches operate at extremely high temperatures. NEVER touch a unit during or after operation as severe burns may result. NEVER remove a friction module from a brake or clutch unit with the air supply connected. Injury may result.