Wichita Dual-Actuator AquaMaKKs Brake for Offshore Drilling Rig Drawworks

PROBLEM

Drawworks OEMs are constantly looking for ways to reduce the weight and footprint of their equipment used on offshore drilling platforms. Typically drawworks utilize two separate braking systems for parking and tensioning. The ability to combine these functions into a single component can help reduce weight and space requirements.

SOLUTION

The AquaMaKKs™ dual-actuator, water-cooled brake from Wichita Clutch is ideal for use on offshore drilling rig drawworks applications. The dual-function unit provides both spring-set failsafe parking and precision tension braking capability in one compact assembly.

The unit serves as a primary static parking brake with a torque rating sufficient to hold 750,000 lbs. on 12 lines. For the dynamic tensioning mode, Wichita’s balanced flow water jackets can absorb up to 3,400 HP, allowing faster operation compared to competitive units.

AquaMaKKs units utilize copper wear plates for greater heat absorption and require only one type of friction material for reduced spare part inventory. The AquaMaKKs dual-actuator assembly is designed to allow fast and easy retrofit onto existing single actuator brakes with minimal downtime.

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