Slip Rings

An industrial slip ring can make a process more refined. Whatever the setting that you require electrical slip rings for, whether powering wind turbines or generators, you will find a selection available here at RS. This range of slip rings includes leading names such as Kuebler and Molex Woodhead, and you can easily select the right fit for your application when you browse the products available here.

What are slip rings?

Slip rings are electromechanical devices. They are used to transfer electrical signals or energy from a static to a rotating component or structure and they are integral to electromechanical systems that need either intermittent or continuous rotation while in operation.

Depending on the reason for its application, there are several uses for a slip ring electrical connector. Generally, it is used in electrical machines to simplify the process and improve mechanical performance, creating a seamless transfer of power or data. It will also do away with wires that hang down from moveable joints.

How do electrical slip rings work?

A standard slip ring rotating connector has two main components: the metal ring and the brush contact. The brushes are made from either graphite, which is an economical option that suits basic motors, or phosphor bronze, which offers better conductivity and is more durable.

The brushes are either fixed with rotating rings or the rings will have fixed bushes and the order this is in will depend on the rotations per minute. Whichever variation it is, the brushes are in contact with the ring via springs.

The rings themselves are made of conductive metal, such as brass, and these are insulated with plastic. When the rings rotate, the electrical current is carried through the brushes, creating a continuous electrical connection.

Why is it important to maintain your slip rings?

The friction caused when slip rings are in operation can cause the components to wear down.

To ensure they last as long as possible, it is important that they are well maintained, and this means that they need to be regularly checked. There are several parts to a slip ring connector that you will need to check to assess where any damage has been sustained.

In addition to the conductive rings and contact brushes, there are further components that make up the slip ring. These include:

Housing

The housing is the aluminum alloyed cabin that the rings and brushes sit in. This acts as a defensive shield.

Insulation

The insulation surrounds the rings and brushes and prevents them from coming into contact with each other. Its purpose is to ensure a smooth generation of power by preventing the slip ring from encountering cross signals.

Brush holders

Brush holders ensure the brushes maintain contact with the ring, keeping a continuous connection.

When running maintenance checks, all these parts of the slip ring need to be assessed for dust, temperature, lubrication, and corrosion levels. To run these checks, the slip rings need to be evaluated when the machine starts up, while it is in operation, at the time the machine is shut down, and after it has been shut down completely.

You can then see where any anomalies occur and ensure that all is in working order.

What are electrical slip rings used for?

If you are looking for an industrial slip ring, it is worth having an idea of how it will be used. Electrical slip rings have a variety of applications.

One of its most common uses is in industrial equipment, such as winders and automated welders. Wind turbines are also a key function, along with medial appliances such as MRI and CT scanners.

Another common reason for applying a slip ring electrical conductor is in security systems. They are added to a pivot point of closed-circuit security cameras. In addition, these are used in helicopters, cranes, and generators.

When searching for slip rings, having the application in mind is a good starting point for making your selection.

Why choose RS for your slip rings?

At RS, we stock a selection of electrical slip rings and we have made it easy for you to search for the type you need. The search function enables you to select by features such as manufacturer, bore diameter, and number of channels.

We are a leading authorized distributor of slip rings in North America. We stock leading industry names, including well-known German manufacturer Kuebler and Molex Woodhead. Our range of electrical slip rings meets the highest industry standards and you are investing in a durable, long-lasting product when you choose RS.

Should you have any questions, our team is on hand to help. Get in touch and we can guide you through the products. You can also find advice in our expert content hub.