Twiflex Limited’s new technologically advanced VCS MK 4 caliper brakes have been engineered to provide a 50% increase in pad area, providing improved stopping and holding in a wide range of critical applications, including mine hoists, conveyor drives, cranes, ship loaders, wind turbines, and drill rigs in industries including mining, steel, pulp and paper, and marine.

The newly introduced VCS MK 4 unit is a spring-applied, hydraulically-released caliper brake, employing the same basic technology as Twiflex’s well proven VCS MK 3 caliper brakes, which have demonstrated their reliability and consistent performance over many years service in the most demanding applications worldwide.

In addition to providing a 50% increase in pad area, the MK 4 brakes evolve the VCS technology in a number of other key areas. The MK 4 Units feature increased service factors, modular construction for easy assembly and maintenance, plus precision monitoring options, and improved sealing and full compatibility with existing VCS mounts and controlled braking systems.

In common with other Twiflex modular brakes, the VCS MK 4 brake is a standard two-module design. The brake is provided as a complete unit with two pre-fitted brake pads. Additional items such as mounting bolts (tie rods), optional finishes and monitoring switches are available options.

Optimising the operation of the VCS MK 4 safety brakes is Twiflex’s "MP" (Modular Range) of Electro Hydraulic Power Units. These provide an advanced and flexible means of brake control in the most arduous of operating conditions; typically, mining steelmaking and container handling. The "MP" unit is essentially an assembly consisting of a base unit, a hydraulic circuit and various auxiliary options.

There is a selection from three common base units; the selection is determined by the brake to be controlled and the circuit opted for. There are four standard control circuits ranging from a basic on/off control to full closed loop utilising a PLC.

The base units can be tailored with various auxiliary options to ensure all specifications are met. The modular system is particularly useful when the installation requires the operation and control of two or more independent brake circuits, or there is a special requirement for meeting a particular industrial specification.