Frequently asked questions on slip rings
What is a slip ring transmitter?
A slip ring transmitter is an electromechanical device for transferring electrical energy (either load or signal current) from a stationary to a moving component.
What is so special about LTN slip ring transmitters?
LTN slip rings employ contact materials and methods which have been tried and tested over many years. This core contact technology is used exclusively in combination with highest quality materials for the rotor and stator. Only optimally matched cables and plugs are chosen for the connections.
How long is the service life and to what extent does it vary?
Owing to our long-standing experience with contact materials and technology, we can adapt the service life individually to the application or use in consultation with the customer. Please contact us for further information.
Do oscillating movements influence the service life?
In the same way as with ball bearings, continuous oscillating movements due to slip rings shorten the service life and should be avoided. If such movements cannot be eliminated in a customer's application, it is advisable to turn the slip ring regularly through 360° if possible. A longer service life can be achieved in this way.
Is it possible to predict the end of the service life?
A certain amount of material wear is inevitable owing to the slip ring technology which is used. The unexpected failure of a slip ring transmitter could have dire consequences. LTN has therefore developed solutions for some slip ring technologies to prevent unexpected failures. Please contact us for more information. We'd be happy to advise you.
Which service concepts are available? Can I service your products myself?
We recommend different service strategies depending on the contact technology which is used. You can find detailed instructions in the manual for your slip ring.
Do you provide individual spare parts for slip ring transmitters?
LTN can generally provide spare parts for slip ring transmitters. In some cases, however, this is not advisable for various reasons. We'd be happy to advise you.
Is it possible to restore slip rings at the end of their service life?
Whether or not restoration is advisable must be decided in each individual case depending on the design and the condition of the slip ring. Restoration or rework may well be possible in certain circumstances.
SC012, SC020 and SC040 do not have a torque support. How is the rotor moved?
There are several possibilities for moving or driving the slip ring rotor:
The rotor is inserted into a bore hole and locked, for example with a headless screw.
The rotor is inserted into a bore hole containing an O-ring. An adequate clamping force between the rotor and the rubber is sufficient to drive the rotor. It is important to avoid interlocking the rotor and stator, as otherwise the slip ring will be damaged and premature failure could occur.
What is the default temperature range for slip ring transmitters?
The temperature resistance of the weakest component determines the temperature range of a slip ring. The large number of customer-specific slip rings complicates the definition of a default temperature range. The operating temperature range -20°C … +70°C can be taken as a rough guide.
What is the best contact technology?
Every new enquiry we receive from a customer includes this question to our experts.
The choice of contact technology takes many different factors into account.
How severe are the electrical, mechanical and material stresses? What requirements arise due to economic considerations? Are there any spatial restrictions? Depending on the application, many more factors may be added to this list.
The best contact technology is the one that best matches all the restrictions and requirements of the specific application.
Do LTN slip ring transmitters contain hazardous substances?
Materials or auxiliaries containing toxic substances are mainly found in adhesives and sealing compounds. The adhesives and sealing compounds which are selected ensure the functionality and safe use of our products. The amounts are restricted to what is absolutely necessary.
How should spent LTN slip ring transmitters be disposed of?
The slip ring is usually made from environmentally friendly materials and can be disposed of as electronic scrap. In case you would like to return your slip rings to us, please contact us or one of our representatives beforehand.
How do you document the final quality clearance for your slip ring transmitters?
LTN thoroughly inspects all slip rings before they leave the factory. The inspection records are archived if neccessary and may be requested by quoting the serial number.
Is it necessary to lubricate modular slip ring transmitters? If so, how?
LTN slip rings are normally fully conditioned and do not require lubrication.
If lubrication is necessary for certain special designs, this is described in the accompanying manual.
For how long are individual design available for order from LTN?
There is no time limit in principle.
If the design is completely outdated or if certain materials are no longer available, we will develop an alternative in collaboration with you.
Does LTN also produce customer-specific slip ring transmitters?
Our products are fully aligned to the requirements of our customers. We think out of the box to meet all your demands. Please contact us.
What is the maximum data rate for transmission using a slip ring?
Digital data can be transmitted at up to 10 Gbit/s depending on the design and size. Please contact us for detailed information on the maximum possible transmission rates.
Is it possible to combine slip ring transmitters with rotary feedthroughs?
Yes, we have frequently implemented combinations of electric rotary transmission with rotary feedthroughs, typically for oil, compressed air or fibre optic conductors. Please contact us if you are planning a project in combination with rotary feedthroughs.
Where can I find information on the configuration (colour codes) of individual wires?
You can find detailed information on the configuration and a description of the electrical connections of the rotor and stator in the data sheet. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you require another copy of a data sheet. We'll be happy to help.
What happens if the specified rotational speed is exceeded?
If the rotational speed specified in the data sheet is exceeded, this will impair the contact between the slip ring and the brush. Transmitted signals may contain more noise.
Faster rotational speeds also increase wear and the expected service life may no longer be achieved.
What information should be included in an enquiry?
To enable us to provide you with a timely and reliable answer, we recommend that you use the request form on our website. Please enter all typical data as well as the most important parameters needed to specify a slip ring in this form. You can download the form here.
How and at what times can I contact LTN customer service?
You can contact our customer service department by email (ltn (at) ltn.de) or phone (+49 8024 6080-0) from 8 am to 5 pm on Monday to Thursday and from 8 am to 3 pm on Friday.
