APPLICATION
Centrifugal Brakes for Davits and Lifeboats
Controlled, weight-independent lowering speed for lifeboats – safety-critical in every operation, whether drill or emergency.
Centrifugal Brakes for Davits on Merchant and Cruise Ships
For lifeboat davits, we supply centrifugal brakes that safely control the launching of the boat in an emergency or during a maintenance drill – regardless of whether the boat is empty or fully occupied. In addition to our standard range, we also manufacture custom solutions for individual boat weights, lowering heights, and vessel types.
What matters with davit brakes: The braking effect is generated purely mechanically and independently of any external power supply – the brake regulates via rotational speed, not weight, and therefore remains reliable at any load. Important to know: the centrifugal brake is not a holding brake; it limits the speed during the lowering process to the level intended for your application.
High Loads Mean High Thermal Loads
When a lifeboat is lowered, potential energy is converted into heat by the braking system. The higher the load and the lowering height, the greater the energy the brake must absorb. This is precisely where correct sizing matters.
Developing a Davit System?
Whether it's a new design, the further development of an existing system, or the replacement of an existing centrifugal brake: together we'll determine which brake solution fits your application. Send us the technical specifications of your davit – our team will support you in selecting and sizing the right centrifugal brake.
The Right Brake Solution for Your Launching Device
These Factors Are Part of the Sizing Process
Every system is different – that's why we calculate the brake sizing individually based on the following parameters.
01. Weight of the Unit Being Lowered
Determines the braking force required during lowering.
02. Desired Lowering Speed
Determines how strongly the brake must act.
03. Brake Shaft Speed
Determines the required braking torque.
04. Lowering Height & Lowering Time
The greater the height, the more energy the brake must absorb.
05. Gear Ratio & Installation Space
Determines which brake size fits into the davit system.
06. Thermal Load & Environmental Conditions
Salt water and temperature fluctuations place special demands on the materials.
How a Centrifugal Brake Limits the Lowering Speed
When launching a lifeboat, the speed must remain constant regardless of the boat's weight.
We have been delivering this principle for davit systems on merchant and cruise ships for over 40 years – through our modular system and our own development and manufacturing in Germany, as part of our standard range or as a custom solution for your boat class.
1. Centrifugal Weights
As the lowering speed increases, the centrifugal weights move outward.
3. Friction Linings
They come into contact with the brake drum and generate the braking torque.
2. Self-Regulation
The braking effect adjusts automatically, regardless of whether the boat is empty or fully loaded.
4. Result
The boat descends into the water at a constant, controlled speed.
How We Work Together
1. Inquiry & Consultation
You tell us the boat type, weight, and lowering height.
2. Custom Sizing
We calculate the right brake for your system.
3. Made-to-Measure Manufacturing
Using our modular system, including heat-resistant special materials.
4. Delivery & Installation
Delivered ready for installation, ready to operate in your davit system.
Frequently Asked Questions about Centrifugal Brakes for Davits and Lifeboats
Are the brakes certified for use on seagoing vessels, e.g., in accordance with SOLAS?
No – we supply only the brake component. Certification of the complete system is the responsibility of the davit system manufacturer.
What is the maximum permissible lowering height?
There's no blanket answer – the lowering height is closely tied to the desired braking duration and is part of the individual sizing process. Get in touch with us about your specific application.
Does the brake withstand the stress of regular maintenance drills?
Yes – with correct sizing and adherence to maintenance intervals, the brake performs just as reliably in a real emergency as during regular drills.
Our Application Areas at a Glance
Centrifugal Brakes & Clutches for Every Application
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150 North Michigan Avenue
35th Floor
Chicago, Illinois 60601