ABB 3HAB3700-1/2 | External Brake Release Unit for Industrial Robots

The ABB 3HAB3700-1/2 is a critical manual safety and maintenance tool designed for ABB industrial robots, particularly those in the IRB series (such as the IRB 2400, 4400, and 6400). This external brake release unit allows operators to manually release the mechanical brakes on the robot’s axes when the controller is powered down or in an emergency state. By providing an external 24V DC power source directly to the brake circuits, it enables the safe and controlled movement of robot arms for servicing, recovery from mechanical jams, or positioning during installation.

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Technical Specifications and Datasheet

• Model Number: 3HAB3700-1/2
• Product Type: External Brake Release Unit (Handheld)
• Compatibility: ABB IRB 1400, 2400, 4400, 6400, and 6600 series
• Input Voltage: 115V / 230V AC (Switchable)
• Output Voltage: 24V DC (Regulated for brake solenoids)
• Dimensions: 210 mm x 130 mm x 100 mm (Approx.)
• Weight: 2.2 kg
• Country of Origin: Sweden
• Enclosure: Rugged, impact-resistant industrial housing
• Cable Length: Typically 5–10 meters (Model dependent)

Application Areas

The 3HAB3700-1/2 is an indispensable tool for maintenance teams and robot integrators in the following scenarios:

• Emergency Recovery: Moving a robot arm away from a fixture or operator in the event of a total controller failure.
• Preventative Maintenance: Releasing individual axis brakes to check for mechanical wear or to grease internal gears.
• Installation & Decommissioning: Maneuvering robot joints when the main power is not yet connected or has been disconnected for transport.
• Teaching & Calibration: Assisting in manual mastering procedures where fine physical adjustment is required without motor torque.

Product Usage Instructions

1. Preparation: Ensure the robot arm is physically supported by a crane, hoist, or wooden blocks. Releasing the brakes without support will cause the robot arm to fall due to gravity.
2. Connection: Plug the unit into a standard AC power outlet. Connect the specialized multi-pin circular connector to the “Brake Release” or “Service” port located at the base of the robot.
3. Operation: Select the specific axis you wish to move using the selector switch on the unit. Press and hold the “Release” button. You will hear a “click” as the solenoid pulls the brake pads away from the motor shaft.
4. Manual Movement: Manually push or pull the robot axis into the desired position.
5. Securement: Release the button to re-engage the brakes immediately. Disconnect the unit before attempting to restart the robot controller.

Common Questions & Answers (Q&A)

Q: Can I release all axes at the same time with this unit? A: No, for safety reasons, the 3HAB3700-1/2 is designed to release one or two specific axes at a time via a selector switch. Releasing all axes simultaneously could cause an unpredictable and dangerous collapse of the robot structure.

Q: Is the 3HAB3700-1/2 compatible with the newer IRC5 controllers? A: This specific model is primarily designed for the S4, S4C, and S4C+ generations. While the electrical principle is similar for IRC5, the connector pinouts may differ. Always verify the connector type (e.g., Burndy or Harting) before attempting connection.

Q: Why won’t the brake release even when the button is pressed? A: Check the internal fuse of the unit and ensure the AC input voltage switch is set correctly (115V vs 230V). Additionally, ensure the robot’s internal cabling is intact; a broken wire in the robot’s base-to-axis harness will prevent the 24V signal from reaching the brake.

Recommended Similar Models

Enhance your ABB robotics toolkit with these related components:

1. ABB 3HAC12928-1 – SMB (Serial Measurement Board)
2. ABB 3HAB2038-1 – Drive Unit for S4C+
3. ABB 3HAC023195-001 – IRC5 FlexPendant
4. ABB 3HAB8101-8 – Computer System Board
5. ABB DSQC627 – IRC5 Power Supply Unit
6. ABB 3HAC044075-001 – OmniCore Brake Release Unit
7. ABB 3HAC14549-1 – Robot Battery Unit
8. ABB DSQC639 – Main Computer Unit
9. ABB 3HNE00313-1 – Teach Pendant for S4C
10. ABB 3HAC025338-001 – Contact Unit for Robot Safety