Kendrion has expanded its BFK brake platform with the BFK558 Sync, a spring-applied brake designed to meet the increased braking demands of high-efficiency IE5 synchronous motors.
The new model delivers up to 30% greater braking torque than previous standard brake series while retaining the same installation dimensions.
As motor power density increases, braking systems must provide greater performance without adding to the space required within the drive. The BFK558 Sync addresses this challenge by generating additional braking torque primarily through increased spring force, rather than relying on a higher coefficient of friction.
Depending on the version, braking torque is at least 25% higher, rising to 30% in some configurations. The approach also allows the friction lining to be selected according to application requirements, using proven options from Kendrion’s portfolio. This is intended to maintain reliable braking performance over an extended service life.
“With the BFK558 Sync, we are responding to the increasing power density of modern synchronous motors. Our goal was to provide significantly more braking torque within the existing installation space while retaining the proven characteristics of our BFK platform,” says Dr. Tobias Engelke, Product Manager at Kendrion.
The BFK558 Sync retains the established installation dimensions and design principles of the BFK series, allowing motor manufacturers to incorporate the higher-performance brake into existing motor concepts with minimal modifications.
Assembly is simplified by a precisely preset air gap, which requires no readjustment during installation. Its modular design also enables configuration for different applications and motor variants.
Sizes 08, 10 and 12 will be available at launch, with further sizes based on the existing BFK series planned. Although developed with IE5 synchronous motors in mind, the brake can also be used in IE3 and IE4 motor concepts.
As a fail-safe, spring-applied brake, the BFK558 Sync supports both holding and emergency-stop functions. Target applications include hoists, cranes, storage and retrieval systems, automated guided vehicles, gantries and conveyor systems, where compact drives must provide dependable braking.
Developed and assembled in Germany, the brake combines increased torque capacity with established platform dimensions and a range of configurations.
Kendrion will present the BFK558 Sync at SPS in Nuremberg, Germany, from 24 to 26 November 2026, in Hall 4, Booth 418.
