Commonly used in the Oil & Gas industry applications, water-cooled brakes (WCB) are extensively used in drilling rigs, workover rigs, and other equipment employed in oil and gas exploration, extraction, and processing operations. These applications often involve high torque and frequent braking, which can generate substantial heat during use. WPT Power’s WCBs are built to provide reliable braking performance in these challenging environments and help ensure safety during drilling and well servicing activities.
What advantages do water-cooled brakes offer?
Here are a few factors to consider when evaluating the benefits of WPT’s water-cooled brake.
Unparalleled Heat Dissipation: The unique ability of circulated water to efficiently absorb and dissipate heat sets water-cooled brakes apart. This makes them the ideal choice for applications where high heat generation is a concern, such as drilling operations that involve high torque, high speeds, and frequent braking cycles.
Uninterrupted Performance: Drilling rigs, workover rigs, and other equipment often require continuous operation. Water-cooled brakes effectively manage thermal buildup during prolonged use and ensure reliable braking performance over extended periods.
Cost-Effective Solution: By effectively managing heat and keeping the brake within a safe operating temperature range, water-cooled brakes can experience less wear and tear compared to their air-cooled counterparts. This can lead to significantly reduced maintenance requirements and longer service life, offering a cost-effective solution, especially in remote or harsh environments commonly seen in oil and gas operations.
Safety Operation: A reliable braking system has various safety measures to minimize the risk of accidents to the drilling crew and equipment damage. Water-cooled brakes help make sure there’s consistent braking performance, contributing to overall operational safety.
Additional safety options with water-cooled brakes
It is recommended and encouraged that some overheat protection is on your cooling system. Water-cooled brakes paired with sensors are designed to prevent overheating during prolonged or intense braking operations. Flow meters and temperature sensors indicate when the temperature exceeds a thermal sensor’s threshold. At that point, the brake system may automatically reduce braking force or disengage to prevent damage and maintain safe operating conditions.
Auxiliary water-cooled brake applications
WPT’s Spring Set Water-Cooled Brakes are a high-energy-absorbing solution used as dynamic tensioning, static holding (parking brake), or emergency stop brakes. Spring-applied and released through pneumatic or hydraulic pressure, these emergency stop or fail-safe brakes can quickly halt all operations, including braking, when required in emergencies or hazardous situations.
Functional and reliable WCB, even in the event of power or system failure, minimizes the risk of accidents and protects personnel and equipment during drilling operations.
In Summary
Overall, WPT’s water-cooled brakes’ ability to manage high heat loads and provide reliable braking performance makes them well-suited for use in various oil & gas operations.
For application assistance, technical support, or more information on your WPT Water Cooled Brake, please visit our website at www.WPTpower.com or give us a call at 940-761-1971.