braked

A braked machine or vehicle is one equipped with functioning brakes: mechanical or hydraulic systems that convert kinetic energy into heat, slowing or halting motion. The term distinguishes active, operational stopping capacity from the unbraked condition. In industrial contexts, braked refers to any powered equipment where stopping is engineered into the design rather than reliant on friction alone or manual intervention.

The most common distinction appears in industrial power transmission. A braked motor includes an integral or mounted brake mechanism, typically an electromagnetic or spring-applied brake, engaged when power is cut. An unbraked motor relies on load friction or external braking. In hoists, conveyors, and crane drives, braked motors are standard because load holding and controlled descent are safety requirements. The brake may be friction-based (disc or drum) or spring-loaded, engaging automatically if hydraulic or electrical pressure fails.

Variants and application range

Industrial trolleys and hand trucks are sold as braked or unbraked depending on whether a foot-pedal or hand lever operates a brake on the wheels. A braked trolley prevents drift on slopes; unbraked types suit level floors only. In printing presses, textile machinery, and paper mills, braked rollers allow precise tension control and prevent backslip when the drive motor stops. Braked gearboxes or reducers protect against reverse rotation and load drop.

The term also applies to pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders: a braked cylinder incorporates internal or pilot-operated check valves to hold load position if supply pressure is lost. This differs from a free-flowing cylinder that drifts if pilot pressure is absent. Specification matters: a lifting application demands a braked cylinder; a door closer may not.

In electrical specification sheets, braked distinguishes motors with holding capacity from those without. A 2 kW braked motor costs more than its unbraked counterpart due to the added brake assembly, solenoid coil, and control wiring. Insurance and machinery safety directives often mandate braked equipment in vertical lift, rotation, or gravity-load scenarios. The word itself simply marks the presence of engineered stopping force, making it essential shorthand for procurement, design review, and safety compliance.