Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use clamps / brakes in harsh environments?
• What is the IP rating of your brakes and clamps?
• What pressure is required for the pneumatic elements?
• Can the pneumatic elements be used with lower air pressure?
• How does the PLUS Connection work?
• Do your pneumatic elements have a quick release function like pneumatic cylinders?
• Can I get custom clamps or brakes?
• Are there any handle options for the HK series?
• Why didn’t I get seals with my product?
• Do I have to use a profile guide? Can’t I build my own?
• Are the bolt holes the same on the clamps/brakes as on the linear block?
• Can I use clamps / brakes on all rail manufacturers’ products?
• Can I use an MKS 4501 A on an INA 45 size rail?
• Why do I need a linear block or bushing with clamps and brakes?
• Do you have stainless steel units?
• Can I get the contact sections with a different material?
• What is HRC 54 and why does it mean to me?
• How much do the contact sections move?
• Are your clamps and brakes adjustable?
• Do you have CAD files?
• My brake/clamp is stuck on the rail – now what?
• Do you have spare parts or repair kits?
• What are better hydraulic or pneumatic elements?
• Do you have distributors in my area?
• Why does is the braking distance so long?

Can I use clamps / brakes in harsh environments?

Absolutely, all our clamp and brake housings are chemically nickled allowing limited rust protection. Seals, if required, are also an option on our clamping and braking elements.

What is the IP rating of your brakes and clamps?

The only one of our products that has an IP rating is our MKE series.

What pressure is required for the pneumatic elements?

Typically 80 psi or 5.5 Bar for most products. Please see technical specifications for exact requirement.

Can the pneumatic elements be used with lower air pressure?

Yes, please contact us with the information so we can modify standard product to suit your requirement.

How does the PLUS Connection work?

It is a 5/3 directional control valve with four ways, five ports, and three positions which can increase holding force and reduce braking time. Please see specifications in out Technical Support area.

Do your pneumatic elements have a quick release function like pneumatic cylinders?

No, our pneumatic elements require air to activate or deactivate depending on model, there are currently no independent quick release channels.

Can I get custom clamps or brakes?

We try to meet everyone’s needs. Contact us and tell us more about your application.

Are there any handle options for the HK series?

We have several options for handles other than what is published or on our website.

Why didn’t I get seals with my product?

End seals, if required need to be ordered as an option at time of order. Tapping the element would be done specifically for the rail/profile model selected, there is no universal sealing option.

Do I have to use a profile guide? Can’t I build my own?

Although we would suggest using a readily available item from a linear manufacturer, you can build your own. Please remember the clamps ands brakes are very precise and are tested to the various tolerances.

Are the bolt holes the same on the clamps/brakes as on the linear block?

No, these are not blocks that require an interchange so bolt pattern is different.

Can I use clamps / brakes on all rail manufacturers’ products?

Some series of clamps and brakes can cross to different manufacturers. Please see technical specifications or contact us for assistance.

Can I use an MKS 4501 A on an INA 45 size rail?

Although these are both forty five millimeter products the profile of the INA is not suitable for this clamp. Please see technical specifications or contact us.

Why do I need a linear block or bushing with clamps and brakes?

All our clamps and brakes are precisely manufacture to surround the profile without touching any surface until activated. A load carrying support element is required to attach to the clamp or brake.

Do you have stainless steel units?

These are available as an option but please remember that all our housing are chemically nickled for corrosion resistance.

Can I get the contact sections with a different material?

No, the contact sections are a hardened material similar to rail profile manufacturers to ensure correct corresponding holding power.

What is HRC 54 and why does it mean to me?

This refers to the Rockwell hardness scale C classification typically used in steel.

How much do the contact sections move?

All brakes and clamps are one hundred percent inspected at the factory for holding force and leaks. Contact sections move to the correct point on the rail to secure block/clamp to specifications indicated, distance of travel on the contact section is not usually relevant.

Are your clamps and brakes adjustable?

Yes, but these are tested at the factory for fit for specific profiles. Please contact us for more information.

Do you have CAD files?

Yes, please use our Product Assistant link to get to the download area.

My brake/clamp is stuck on the rail – now what?

Don’t panic, call us immediately for assistance.

Do you have spare parts or repair kits?

Generally not, all our products have an estimated life cycle. Once they have reached this it’s time for replacement.

What are better hydraulic or pneumatic elements?

Both have their attributes in different applications, contact us to discuss further.

Do you have distributors in my area?

We have a distribution network throughout North America. If you cannot locate one locally, call us we’ll put you in touch with the right people.

Why does is the braking distance so long?

Theoretical braking calculations are exactly that theory. There are several variables that contribute to the time it takes to completely stop a braking element. Consistent supply of air or fluid, valve reaction time, diameter of hose being used and distance of power source to brakes are just a few of the variables. The calculation provides an approximate distance; exact distance would have to be tested in your environment.