Dynamic Braking Resistors: Why Choose Edgewise-Wound Strip Resistors

Dynamic braking resistors are essential components used to safely decelerate and stop electric motors in a very short time. Controlled by electrical drives, they offer numerous advantages over mechanical braking systems, such as:

  • greater reliability;

  • reduced maintenance requirements;

  • lower overall system weight;

  • faster braking response;

  • less wear and stress on mechanical brake components.

These resistors operate via rheostatic braking: as the motor decelerates, it acts as a generator, producing excess energy. The resistors absorb this regenerated energy and dissipate it as heat, preventing overvoltage and protecting the system.

This solution is especially useful when mechanical braking is not sufficient—for example, in systems with high moving masses, where the kinetic energy requires effective dissipation.

Dynamic braking resistors are used in a variety of industrial applications and high-inertia systems, including:

  • electric vehicles and rail transport;

  • tower cranes, truck-mounted cranes, and lifting systems;

  • wind turbines;

  • textile and heavy machinery;

  • robotic arms and automated production lines;

  • elevators, hoists, and escalators;

In all these contexts, industrial power resistors provide safety, efficiency, and operational continuity.

Advantages of Edgewise-Wound Strip Resistors

One of the most reliable technologies for electric motor braking is the edgewise-wound strip resistor. These components are built by winding a flat metal strip around an insulating core, with the narrow edge facing outward. This configuration offers several key benefits:

  • fast heat dissipation, even under high energy loads;

  • excellent mechanical and thermal strength, ideal for harsh industrial environments;

  • low inductance, perfect for handling impulse currents or fast braking cycles.

Edgewise-wound strip resistors are typically divided into two main families, each suited for specific needs:

  • RNT (Tubular-Type Strip Resistors). Provide uniform heat dissipation thanks to their tubular shape—ideal for steady, continuous applications;

  • RNP (Flat-Type Strip Resistors). Designed for quick response to impulse loads, offering greater surface exposure to air for rapid cooling.

Both solutions offer high reliability in braking applications, and the best choice depends on load characteristics, frequency of use, and operating conditions.

Fairfild Solutions for Dynamic Braking

Fairfild offers a comprehensive range of dynamic braking resistors, designed to meet the demands of the most challenging industrial sectors. Among these, edgewise-wound strip resistors are ideal for high-power applications, fast movements, and systems with intensive cycles.

Discover Fairfild’s edgewise-wound strip resistors: engineered not only for effective dynamic braking, but also to improve electric motor efficiency, enhance system reliability, and ensure optimal management of regenerated energy.

Contact us today for personalized technical advice—we’ll help you select the resistor best suited to your industrial application, with ready-to-use or fully custom solutions.