# Stepper motor brake **URL:** \ **Category:** Original/PRO Series (Buildbotics) (Gen 1)\ **Created:** [May 24, 2022, 10:45pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256 "2022-05-24T22:45:46Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![Nightman](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/n/dc4da7/32.png) [@Nightman](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/Nightman)\ **Post date:** [May 24, 2022, 10:45pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/1 "2022-05-24T22:45:46Z")
How to install 24 v electromagnetic brake on the x-rail stepper motor. On the journeyman x-50. ---
**Author:** ![349iq2345](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/3/bb73d2/32.png) [@349iq2345](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/349iq2345)\ **Post date:** [May 25, 2022, 12:12am UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/2 "2022-05-25T00:12:16Z")
Hey Carl, (continuing the discussion from [Shutdown on wallmount](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/shutdown-on-wallmount/13245/5)) the brake is mounted on the rear of the stepper, not on the front. - [I already have a motor, can I buy brake and attach on motor?](https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/support/s9/i-already-have-a-motor-can-i-buy-brake-and-attach-on-motor) In case you cannot retrofit the brake to the stepper, you can also replace the stepper with one that already has a brake mounted. The [X stepper of Journeyman](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/motor-size-for-journeyman/11126/3) is [23HS30-2804S](https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/nema-23-bipolar-1-8deg-1-9nm-269oz-in-2-8a-3-2v-57x57x76mm-4-wires-23hs30-2804s) ([datasheet here](https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/download/23HS30-2804S.pdf)) and the corresponding model with brake is [23HS30-2804D-B200](https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/nema-23-stepper-1-9nm-269oz-in-w-brake-friction-torque-2-0nm-283oz-in-23hs30-2804d-b200) ([datasheet here](https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/download/23HS30-2804D-B200.pdf), [brake datasheet here](https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/download/SWB-03.pdf)). To be exact, Tom @TMToronto picked up his X-50 rail at the Onefinity Factory and reported the stepper is [23HS30-2804S- **C1**](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/motor-size-for-journeyman/11126/3) but @onefinitycnc [says here it’s a 23HS30-2804S- **RV**](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/differences-between-x-50-rails-upgrade-and-x-35-rails-standard/6033). Since I don’t have the machine here I cannot say immediately what stepper is found on mine. What you also would need is a power supply with 24 V 500 mA for the brake. EDIT: Just saw that the model with brake does not correspond because the one with brake has shaft diameter 8 mm while the other has shaft diameter 6.35 mm. Possibly manufacturer has motor w/brake with correct shaft diameter available. Will have a look at the weekend. If not, we got to get another [coupler](https://www.onefinitycnc.com/product-page/high-torque-shaft-coupler-6-35mm-to-10mm). ---
**Author:** ![349iq2345](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/3/bb73d2/32.png) [@349iq2345](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/349iq2345)\ **Post date:** [May 25, 2022, 10:23pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/3 "2022-05-25T22:23:35Z")
Hey Carl @Nightman, a little update: My partner asked the manufacturer and the answer is you cannot retrofit this brake to Onefinity X-50’s stock [23HS30-2804S](https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/nema-23-bipolar-1-8deg-1-9nm-269oz-in-2-8a-3-2v-57x57x76mm-4-wires-23hs30-2804s) stepper, but you can mount it to model [23HS30-2804D](https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/dual-shaft-nema-23-bipolar-1-9nm-269oz-in-2-8a-3-2v-57x57x76mm-4-wires-23hs30-2804d) which has a rear shaft. Unfortunately the latter (which is also available [with brake already mounted](https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/nema-23-stepper-1-9nm-269oz-in-w-brake-friction-torque-2-0nm-283oz-in-23hs30-2804d-b200)) has a 8 mm ø shaft while the model on Onefinity X-50 (while being otherwise identical) has a 6,35 mm (=1/4″) ø shaft. So either we try to find a [coupler](https://www.onefinitycnc.com/product-page/high-torque-shaft-coupler-6-35mm-to-10mm) with a 8 mm hole on one side or we could use a drill to enlarge the 6.35 mm hole on the coupler to 8 mm. EDIT: Since the manufacturer offers a [wide range of couplers](https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/shaft-coupling), it is easy to find a suitable one to replace the [stock 6.35 mm – 10 mm coupler](https://www.onefinitycnc.com/product-page/high-torque-shaft-coupler-6-35mm-to-10mm) on the Onefinity X-50: [ ![8mm-10mm-flexible-jaw-coupling-20x30mm-cnc-stepper-motor-shaft-coupler--1656__background_cropped_67pct](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex022/uploads/onefinitycnc/original/2X/1/129e3b5b53c32b16a15a365c8a2c9c6e80734b7f.png) Flexible Jaw 8 mm – 10 mm shaft coupler](https://www.omc-stepperonline.com/8mm-10mm-flexible-jaw-coupling-20x30mm-cnc-stepper-motor-shaft-coupler-st-jc13) ---
**Author:** ![TMToronto](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/7ea924/32.png) [@TMToronto](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/TMToronto)\ **Post date:** [May 25, 2022, 11:33pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/4 "2022-05-25T23:33:19Z")
What about this type? > **[Spring Applied Power-Off Brakes | Teknic, Inc.](https://teknic.com/products/spring-applied-power-off-brakes/?gclid=CjwKCAjwp7eUBhBeEiwAZbHwkWGRdj6cXB8QViWWq8RETowQKy9Numnl01lFDZJWvqOjBOEA1CNTOhoCTQ4QAvD_BwE)** > > NEMA 23 & NEMA 34 Power-Off, Spring applied brakes for servo and stepper motors. Starting at $219, buy online, ships in 3 days, 90-day returns. ---
**Author:** ![349iq2345](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/3/bb73d2/32.png) [@349iq2345](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/349iq2345)\ **Post date:** [May 25, 2022, 11:40pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/5 "2022-05-25T23:40:25Z")
Hey Tom, ah, these mount on the front! Had a look, the [brake with NEMA 23 footprint](https://teknic.com/products/spring-applied-power-off-brakes/NEMA-23-brake/) is for 3/8″ (9.5 mm) ø shaft ---
**Author:** ![TMToronto](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/7ea924/32.png) [@TMToronto](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/TMToronto)\ **Post date:** [May 25, 2022, 11:49pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/6 "2022-05-25T23:49:21Z")
[https://www.idicb.com/-/media/Files/Literature/Brand/inertia-dynamics/catalogs/p-7874-idi-sections/product-page-specific/p-7874-idi-mpc-ordering-info.ashx](https://www.idicb.com/-/media/Files/Literature/Brand/inertia-dynamics/catalogs/p-7874-idi-sections/product-page-specific/p-7874-idi-mpc-ordering-info.ashx) ---
**Author:** ![TMToronto](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/7ea924/32.png) [@TMToronto](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/TMToronto)\ **Post date:** [May 25, 2022, 11:55pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/7 "2022-05-25T23:55:02Z")
I have been contemplating a different solution to this issue, but for heavy spindles on the Z axis. I started investigating constant force springs as a solution. Here is my idea for the wall mount application (forgive the quick crude drawing). It would take a bit of creative mounting, but I could see the end attaching to the Z assembly - the other coiled end attached with bolts where the x axis motor mounts. See examples below. Correct force of spring would need to be determined. It should line up nicely with my mounting suggestions. ![onefinity wall mount w spring](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex022/uploads/onefinitycnc/original/2X/f/f5392f8ddb40c487f579a9dd7f5fef4a39f91ae9.jpeg) > **[SUS301 Constant Force Spring，Load 8.82 lbs，ID 1.17",OD 1.49",Total Length...](https://www.amazon.com/CONSTANT-SPRING%EF%BC%8CLOAD-EXTANDED-MATERIAL-THICKNESS/dp/B078FNKYNN?tag=benmyers-20)** > > SUS301 Constant Force Spring，Load 8.82 lbs，ID 1.17",OD 1.49",Total Length 39.37",EXTANDED Length 33",Material Wideness 1",Material Thickness 0.0157",Pack of 5: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific ---
**Author:** ![TMToronto](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/7ea924/32.png) [@TMToronto](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/TMToronto)\ **Post date:** [May 25, 2022, 11:59pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/8 "2022-05-25T23:59:18Z")
Some people prefer to counter the mass vs add more electronics that do not reduce stress/wear on the motor. ---
**Author:** ![349iq2345](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/3/bb73d2/32.png) [@349iq2345](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/349iq2345)\ **Post date:** [May 26, 2022, 12:03am UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/9 "2022-05-26T00:03:33Z")
Hey Tom, > [@TMToronto](#): > > [https://www.idicb.com/-/media/Files/Literature/Brand/inertia-dynamics/catalogs/p-7874-idi-sections/product-page-specific/p-7874-idi-mpc-ordering-info.ashx](https://www.idicb.com/-/media/Files/Literature/Brand/inertia-dynamics/catalogs/p-7874-idi-sections/product-page-specific/p-7874-idi-mpc-ordering-info.ashx) Ah, okay! 1/4" shaft diameter, on input and output, here it is! Thank you! So that would be a solution for Onefinity X-50 stepper. Would need to be planned with additional space for X motor. | MODEL | PART NUMBER \* | NEMA FRAME | INPUT SHAFT DIAMETER (INCH) | OUTPUT SHAFT DIAMETER (INCH) | TORQUE (INCH/LB) | | MPC23 | 8923-x331 | 23 | **1/4** | **1/4** | 3 | I am tired got to go to bed! ---
**Author:** ![349iq2345](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/3/bb73d2/32.png) [@349iq2345](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/349iq2345)\ **Post date:** [May 26, 2022, 12:54am UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/10 "2022-05-26T00:54:12Z")
Hey Tom, > [@TMToronto](#): > > I started investigating constant force springs as a solution. Here is my idea for the wall mount application (forgive the quick crude drawing). It would take a bit of creative mounting, but I could see the end attaching to the Z assembly - the other coiled end attached with bolts where the x axis motor mounts. See examples below. Correct force of spring would need to be determined. It should line up nicely with my mounting suggestions. I like your solution, because 1. It’s logical, because you meet a force (the force of gravity) with an opposing force (the [restoring force](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Restoring_force) of a [constant-force spring](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constant-force_spring)) – it’s like using [anti-gravity](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-gravity). Fascinating. 2. In contrast to the electromagnetic brake, you do not constantly consume 11.5 W of power. But I also like [Jim’s solution](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/shutdown-on-wallmount/13245/3). Because 1. solutions that consist of a piece of wood have been successful for millions of years. I like that! ---
**Author:** ![Dr-Al](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/d/cc9497/32.png) [@Dr-Al](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/Dr-Al)\ **Post date:** [May 27, 2022, 11:09am UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/11 "2022-05-27T11:09:42Z")
A brake would be needed if one of the axis is converted into a rotary axis. For a wall mounted 1F I would go with a spring to reduce the impact of weight (although most of that weight is on the Z axis when it’s on a table). But I would add a brake just in case. If the power goes out or you shut it down and the X axis isn’t at the bottom it’ll want to go there. I think it would be more of an issue with the Journeyman due to it’s X axis having a courser pitched lead screw. ---
**Author:** ![Nightman](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/n/dc4da7/32.png) [@Nightman](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/Nightman)\ **Post date:** [May 30, 2022, 3:17am UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/12 "2022-05-30T03:17:15Z")
Do you think it would best to go with a tool balance retractor. I have 2.2 kw spindle and 80 mm bracket on it. When I went to home it as soon as the z rail assembly touched the y rail to set the x hard limit it error out and shut the power off to the stepper motor. Which caused the z rail assembly to drop rapidly down to the other y rail. I caught it before it hit the bottom. I believe the weight of the spindle vs the makita router is to much for the sensitivity to set the hard limit. That is why I’m leaning towards a tool balance retractor. But I have to figure what weight range I need to get. What are your thoughts on this? Thanks for your help, Carl ---
**Author:** ![TMToronto](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/7ea924/32.png) [@TMToronto](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/TMToronto)\ **Post date:** [May 30, 2022, 3:53am UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/13 "2022-05-30T03:53:39Z")
I have seen people use a fishing scale, or you could use a Newton meter, to lift the mass of the combined assemblies. That would give an idea of the counter mass/spring force needed. ---
**Author:** ![Dr-Al](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/d/cc9497/32.png) [@Dr-Al](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/Dr-Al)\ **Post date:** [May 30, 2022, 4:26am UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/14 "2022-05-30T04:26:15Z")
Some of the tools I work on have a brake on them specifically so if the power is cut to the stepper it prevents exactly what happened to Carl can’t happen. Another option for a spring would be a window balance. ---
**Author:** ![Nightman](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/n/dc4da7/32.png) [@Nightman](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/Nightman)\ **Post date:** [May 30, 2022, 4:57am UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/15 "2022-05-30T04:57:25Z")
That is what I was thinking of using a fish scale. But, I have to wait till tomorrow to get it out of my boat. I’m new to this tool balance and tool balance retractor. I seen on you tube a video [https://youtu.be/X7-6HAyUHcI](https://youtu.be/X7-6HAyUHcI) It shows an example of a balancer, retractor and a positioner. I think a positioner would best. What are your thoughts on this? Thanks, Carl ---
**Author:** ![TMToronto](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/7ea924/32.png) [@TMToronto](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/TMToronto)\ **Post date:** [May 30, 2022, 11:33am UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/16 "2022-05-30T11:33:04Z")
Those products look interesting. At first glance the positioner looks like the correct choice, but it might be worth it to contact the company (or others like it) to discuss your application. I think it really depends on the mechanics inside each. Regardless, I think the solution that does not require an additional force to extend the gantry would be appropriate. ---
**Author:** ![Nightman](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/n/dc4da7/32.png) [@Nightman](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/Nightman)\ **Post date:** [May 30, 2022, 5:55pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/17 "2022-05-30T17:55:32Z")
I just checked the weight of the z-rail assembly w/2.2 kw spindle with fish scale and holding weight is approximately 25 lbs. So, I’m thinking a tool positioner of 25 to 30 lb. What are your thoughts on this? Wall mount Thanks, Carl ---
**Author:** ![Nightman](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/n/dc4da7/32.png) [@Nightman](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/Nightman)\ **Post date:** [May 30, 2022, 6:37pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/18 "2022-05-30T18:37:37Z")
Can you explain a little more on your statement ( I think the solution that does not require an additional force to extend the gantry would be appropriate). I’m a little confused about that. Thanks, Carl ---
**Author:** ![TMToronto](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/7ea924/32.png) [@TMToronto](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/TMToronto)\ **Post date:** [May 30, 2022, 7:12pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/19 "2022-05-30T19:12:19Z")
I think I meant to say Z assembly not gantry. Some of the tool positioners/extenders may require the use of extra force to pull down against an internal spring - in your case making the steppers work harder to pull down the Z assembly. ---
**Author:** ![Nightman](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/n/dc4da7/32.png) [@Nightman](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/u/Nightman)\ **Post date:** [May 30, 2022, 7:42pm UTC](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256/20 "2022-05-30T19:42:43Z")
Did you check that you tube link out that I enclosed previously, the last example in the video caught my interest when he added extra weight and it didn’t move. But, with a slight tug or push it moved. That caught my attention. What do you think? [Next page](https://forum.onefinitycnc.com/t/stepper-motor-brake/13256.md?page=2)