Slip rings are also called by the name rotary electrical joints, collector rings and electric swivels. These are basically devices that are needed for transmitting power, data from a stationary component to a rotating component. These slip rings are also used for transmission of electrical signals, etc. There are different types of slip rings and the designs of the rings would depend on the application that it is used for. For example, when there is a need to transmit date, you would require a slip ring. These types of rings are special because they have to handle higher bandwidth and they also have to mitigate better EMI or Electromagnetic Interference. However, at the end of the day, there is no doubt that the basic components are the same. They come with a stationary brushes and ring that rotates. When we talk about a complete and total ring assembly, we include bearings, end capes, and various other structural features. But, here again we should not overlook the fact that the basic components of slips rings are brushes and rings.
Spools Could Also Be Used
The use of various types of slip rings including custom slip rings is directly related to the number of revolution of various components. For example, if the rotation of one component has to take care of fixed number of revolutions, there could be the need for the use of spools along with sufficient cable lengths. This also should be supported by the right rotating speed without which the required number of revolutions may not take place. Further, we also need to bear in mind that cable management in this type of setups could be quite difficult, complex and challenging. However, in case one component is able to rotate continuously, it might work in some cases. However, without the right slips rings it may not be reliable and practical from the long term perspective. Now that we have some basic idea about the functions of slip rings, let us try and have a look at the various common types of slip rings that are used.
Optical Slip Rings And Their Usage
When we talk about slip rings with optical attributes, we are basically referring to FORJ or Fiber Optic Rotary Joints. These joints are rings are extremely vital and critical because of a number of reasons. They are required to support 1, 2, 4 and even 6 to 8 channel fiber optics when they are rotating at a 360 degree angle. Further they can handle higher circuits that are often required in the power and electrical industry and also for signaling purposes. Hence, it is common to see these optical slip rings being used in railways for signaling of trains. Further, when you use these rings made from optic fiber, you also can be sure about a few more things. They can offer a rotating speed that is much higher and you also can be sure that there is very little noise. Further, they are best suited whenever there is a need for transmitting large amounts of data. In some cases they can handle data transmission as high as 100 Gbps, which is humongous to say the least. Finally, when you are looking for cost effective means of transmission of data, there is hardly any doubt that they slip rings made from optic fiber are often considered as the obvious choice. Hence, in today’s world of data, mobile telephony, computer and internet technology, the role of these slips rings is critical to say the least.
Hollow Shaft Slip Ring
A hollow shaft slip ring is also referred to as a bore slip ring. They are used in a number of applications and in areas where there is a need for signal transmission, they are considered to be extremely vital and critical. They are considered to be mandatory whenever there is a need to transfer power and signals in a tight and compact space. It also is the best option whenever there is a need for through hole for passing through a shaft and other feed through. These slip rings use a unique modular design feature. This allows quite a bit of flexibility as far as circuit count, package sizes, and also whenever there is a need to transmit a mix of signal and power circuits. They come in different sizes and the bore diameters could range from 2 mm to around 90 mm. You also could come across slip rings with larger diameter and they are offered as customized and tailor-made solutions for specific needs and requirements. Further, the technology that is required for making these slips rings is quite advanced. There is a need to make use of the best possible and most advanced brush technology. Only then would they be able to cater to the varying and unique needs and also increase the overall life and durability of the entire transmission and other allied systems.
How To Choose The Right Slip Rings
Now that we have had a look at two major slip rings that are considered critical for transmission of data, electricity or a combination of both, we will also spend a few minutes trying to understand a few more interesting things. We will try and have a look at the various important points to be kept in mind when it comes to choosing these slip rings. With so many choices and options, materials, and sizes and designs available, you must be sure that you are choosing the right slip rings. We are mentioning a few major points that we feel or considered
- The total number of wires going through the entire circuitry is a point that will help decide as to which type of slip rings one should chose.
- The working conditions such as heat, pollution, and other such factors should also be taken into account.
- The working humidity should also be carefully evaluated and slip rings should be chosen accordingly.
- There are a few other points that also need to be looked into. These include maximum rotating speed, lead length, revolution per minute (RPM), slip ring price and the number of hours it will be working per day.