At rotarX, we have built our business upon providing the best slip ring solutions to our customers. But we know that not everyone is a slip ring expert. In this article, we wanted to answer some of the most frequently asked questions, to help you better understand slip rings.
Question 1: Where are slip rings most commonly used?
Slip rings are typically used in commercial and industrial machines as well as in motors across various industries. They are typically found in crane technology, filling systems, packaging machines, and medical technology, as well as in robots. Generally, slip rings can be found in most electromechanical machinery and is a very versatile product.
Question 2: What is the purpose of using slip rings?
Slip rings play an important role in providing a continuous electrical link between a static and a rotating system. As a result, slip rings allow the transfer power from static sources to a moving part. Basically, these are bands of electrically transmitting materials fixed on shafts. Though they are insulated from the shafts, slip rings are linked to the moving system via copper windings. The exterior surfaces of slip rings are in continuous sliding interaction with static brushes.
Question 3: Are slip rings and commutators the same thing?
Commutators and slip rings are both used to sustain electrical current flow between stationary and spinning parts. However, the most distinct characteristic between them is that a commutator converts AC to DC and vice versa, while a slip ring does not. Therefore, the function of a slip ring is simply to establish a connection between static and rotating systems. Within a motor or generator, a slip ring is commonly used to bring resistance to the rotor windings, which makes the rotor current more in contact with the stator current to ensure high torque generation with comparatively low current.
Question 4: What type of data can be transmitted through a slip ring?
At rotarX we offer a number of standardized and customizable slip ring solutions to ensure that our client needs are being met. In addition to electrical power, we offer solutions that transmit optical fibers, signals and field buses such as 100 BaseT Ethernet inside of rotating systems. We truly believe that fast and reliable data transmission by slip ring bodies will continue to be increasingly important, especially with the growth of Industry 4.0. In addition to our data transmitting slip rings, we also offer solutions that can transmit signals and data alongside liquid media, such as oil, water, grease, and emulsion.
Question 5: How do I maintain the slip rings within my machines?
Slip rings offer very reliable, maintenance-free, and low-wear power, signal, and data transmission. This means that there is no maintenance needed on your rotarX slip rings.
We know that navigating the different slip ring requirements (and possibilities!) can be difficult, but we hope that answering these frequently asked questions has helped you see the opportunities that slip rings offer. If you have any additional questions, or need help finding the right solution, our customer service representatives will be happy to help! You can reach out to us here and we will get back to you shortly.