World first: One-to-one replacement for permanent magnet brakes
COMBISTOP S1 spring-applied brake from KEB Automation with patented friction system
KEB Automation has launched a spring-applied brake that is unique worldwide. The new COMBISTOP S1 is capable of replacing permanent magnet brakes on a one-to-one basis. This is made possible by an innovative, space-saving design combined with the patented friction system. Thanks to this, a high and temperature-stable torque is achieved, which until now could only be realised by permanent magnet brakes within a comparable installation space. The S1 brake does not require any rare earths at all, thereby reducing material dependency and increasing planning reliability.
“The new COMBISTOP S1 puts an end to compromises. This is because we have combined the individual strengths of spring-applied and permanent magnet brakes in this model. Its compact dimensions and high reliability during emergency stops at high speeds and at high temperatures make the S1 a safety brake that leaves nothing to be desired. In many cases, our customers no longer have to choose between different brakes, as the S1 provides them with a universal solution developed in-house at KEB,” says Kevin Zysk, Head of Sales for Brakes and Clutches at KEB Automation.
This innovative brake can be used in almost all applications where high-performance fail-safe holding brakes with emergency stop capability are required. In addition to use in servo motors, the new spring-applied brake from KEB is also suitable for applications in robotics, medical technology, AGVs and vertical axes. A key feature of the brake is its torque stability. Typically, conventional spring-applied brakes with organic friction linings experience a drop in torque at high temperatures. As a result, previous spring-applied brakes had to be oversized and were significantly larger than permanent magnet brakes in a like-for-like comparison. The COMBISTOP S1 spring-applied brake, on the other hand, maintains the torque at a significantly higher level across the entire temperature range. This is particularly relevant for applications involving high ambient temperatures – such as inside a motor – or emergency stops at high speeds and temperatures.
Thanks to a pre-set air gap, the S1 is ready for immediate use, eliminating the need for time-consuming commissioning by the user. Furthermore, the brake – which is designed for S1 operation (100 per cent duty cycle) – features optional cable ducts for the manufacturer’s and customer’s own cables, thereby eliminating the need for additional cable routing. “Thanks to the Plug&Play system, our customers can get started right away. Installation is straightforward using standard screw-on mounting options and can be flexibly carried out as either a flange-side or housing-side installation. In addition to the correct hub bore, the housing and the bearing recess can also be customised for individual projects. Furthermore, the S1 is characterised by its resistance to axial play,” says Zysk. The torque range of the high-performance holding brake is 2.8 Nm to 45 Nm. It is initially available in six sizes.
Convince yourself
KEB Automation will be presenting the S1 for the first time at SPS 2026 in Nuremberg as a direct replacement for permanent magnet brakes: from 24 to 26 November 2026 at stand 320 in Hall 7.
