Twiflex Limited's VCS MK 4 caliper brakes have been engineered to provide a 50 percent increase in pad area for improved stopping and holding in a range of applications, including mine hoists, conveyor drives, cranes, ship loaders, wind turbines and drill rigs in industries like mining, steel, pulp and paper and marine.

The VCS MK 4 unit is a spring-applied, hydraulically-released caliper brake, which uses the same technology as Twiflex's VCS MK 3 caliper brakes. The MK 4 brakes build on the VCS technology in other key areas. They feature increased service factors, modular construction for simpler assembly and maintenance, precision monitoring options, improved sealing and full compatibility with existing VCS mounts and controlled braking systems.

As with other Twiflex modular brakes, the MK 4 is a standard two-module design. The brakes come as a complete unit with two pre-fitted brake pads. Mounting bolts (tie rods), optional finishes and monitoring switches are options.

Twiflex, an Altra Industrial Motion company, has a modular range (MP) of electro hydraulic power units that optimize the MK 4's operation. They provide a flexible means of brake control in arduous operating conditions, such as mining steelmaking and container handling. The MP unit basically consists of a base unit, hydraulic circuit and various auxiliary options.

Three common base units are available and are determined by the brake to be controlled and the circuit opted for. Four standard control circuits range from a basic on/off control to full closed-loop using a PLC. The base units can be tailored with various options to ensure specifications are met. The modular system is appropriate for use in an installation that requires the operation and control of two or more independent brake circuits, or there is a special requirement for meeting a particular industrial specification.