Generators

Carbon brushes for generators – reliable power transmission under extreme conditions

Schunk provides high-performance generator carbon brushes developed for maximum efficiency, long service life, and exceptional operational reliability in energy-intensive applications. With over 100 years of experience, we create custom solutions for DC and AC generators – from compact units to large-scale systems.

Carbon Brush Configurator

Carbon Brushes for Generators

High-performance carbon brushes for generators of all sizes

Generators produce high current densities, operate under fluctuating load profiles, and must function reliably even at extreme temperatures. The carbon brushes used must withstand these stresses over the long term – with minimal wear and maximum conductivity.

Additionally, thermal stress, voltage fluctuations, vibrations, and long-term operation place high demands on both the material and the geometry. Our generator brushes are precisely designed for this – with application-specific metal content suited to the current density involved.

Typical stress factors for generator brushes:

Continuous current transmission without interruption
Minimal spark formation at the sliding contact
Low-wear, heat-resistant contact materials
Mechanical stability at high rotational speeds
Secure contact during vibration, load changes, and standby operation

The result: maximum operational reliability – for years to come.

Materials & Technologies

Materials, geometries, and technologies at a glance

Choosing the right material is key to the efficiency and lifespan of generator carbon brushes. Depending on the application, materials like metal graphite or electrographite are used. They differ in conductivity, friction, and durability – ideal for continuous operation, occasional use, or extreme current spikes.
Brush shape is also crucial: it affects contact pressure, heat dissipation, and even wear. For highly stressed environments – such as flywheel drives or dusty surroundings – we employ special dust channels and temperature-stable geometries.

Carbon brushes in generators for energy & industry

Schunk generator carbon brushes are used worldwide in a wide variety of energy and industrial applications. Requirements vary greatly depending on the location and stress – from high current density to harsh environments.

Our applications

Power Plants (coal, gas, hydro, biomass): Long-term operation, high current loads, low-maintenance design
Wind Turbines (onshore & offshore): Temperature changes, humidity, possible salt in the air, compact design, vibration resistance
Backup Generators & Mobile Units: Immediate contact performance, low self-wear during standby operation
Industrial Facilities & Flywheel Storage: Mechanically stressed environments with dust, heat, and high torques

Our solutions ensure consistent performance – from planned grid operation to spontaneous backup power supply.

Schunk

Your partner for generator carbon brushes

Schunk stands for technical excellence and global supply reliability – even for the most demanding generator applications. Our generator brushes impress with precision manufacturing, individually tailored material concepts, and robust supply chains.

Your benefits with Schunk generator brushes:

Customized material concepts for all generator types
Long brush life, even under continuous load
Reduced maintenance costs through minimized wear
High operational reliability, even under extreme conditions
Support with material selection, sizing & commissioning
As a development partner, we support you from design to series integration – with deep industry knowledge and a global service infrastructure.

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