We come across many objects that rotate in our daily lives. How does power transfer when a device is in constant rotation? The electromechanical device that allows power and data to be transferred from a stationary system to a rotating one is a slip ring. Some of the examples of applications of slip rings include truck booms, grain bins, wind turbines, pallet wrappers, amusement rides, etc.
Advantages of using a slip ring
How does a slip ring work?
A slip ring rotates under a variety of speeds depending on the application. The slip ring rides along a center shaft and sits on a base plate. The base plate or mount is held stationary and the shaft rotates in the center. This allows the slip ring to transfer power from a stationary system to a 360-degree rotating unit, completing the circuit.
Slip ring configuration
A slip ring consists of 2 main components: rings and brushes.
Depending on the customer requirements, rings are stacked along the center shaft with the brushes to provide the complete slip ring assembly. The wire leads from the brushes and from the rings are connected to electrical circuits. Slip rings can be enclosed using a cover to protect them from dust, moisture, and other elements to prevent malfunction.