Capsule Slip Rings vs Through Bore Slip Ring: Which to Choose?

Slip rings help send power and signals between stationary parts and parts that spin. The two main types of slip rings you’ll find are Capsule slip rings and through-hole slip rings. This guide will help you choose the right one based on what your project needs.

Understanding the Types

Capsule Slip Rings

Capsule slip rings are small, all-in-one units. They are usually shaped like a tiny Capsule and do not have any holes in the center. These types of slip rings are usually built to save space in tiny setups.

They can handle low-current power as well as sensitive data signals. Each wire circuit can usually handle about 2 amps of current per loop. You can usually find them in small sensors or drones.

Advantages

●Capsule slip rings are very affordable.

●They are usually produced in large numbers, which makes them easy to find.

●They are small and light, which helps portable handheld devices.

Limitations

●These slip rings are not built to handle a lot of current.

●They are very prone to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can affect signals inside the unit.

●Capsule slip rings have weaker insulation when compared to custom types.

●It is not very useful in harsh environments.

Through-Bore (Through-Hole) Slip Ring

Through-bore slip rings are shaped like tubes or a hollow cylinder. Their main feature is the hole in the middle, which allows a shaft or wires to pass through. This helps to keep the machine's design clean and organized.

These slip rings are usually made for tougher jobs. They can handle more power, about 2 to 20 amps per loop. Some special designs can even be made to carry more power. The center holes can also be customized to hold a lot more channels for power and data.

Advantages

●Most through-hole slip rings come with aluminum alloy housings.

●The hole in the center gives a lot of design freedom to engineers.

●They can work very well in wet, dry, or hot places.

●You can safely mix power and data lines to send multiple signals at once.  

Disadvantages

●It is much more expensive than Capsule slip rings.

●Customization options mean it takes a longer time for them to be built.

●It takes up more space during installation.

Key Comparison Table

Depth of Detail: Use Cases & Specs

When to Choose Capsule Slip Rings

A Capsule slip ring should be used when you have a small project. They work very well when both size and weight need to be kept at a minimal level. Security cameras use them for panning or tilting smoothly. The small size of the slip ring fits inside the housing without being bulky. You’ll usually see Capsule rings in:

●Drones

●Rotating sensors

●Small lab machines

●Slip ring toys

Most times, they come in sizes ranging from 5.5mm–35.5mm. Some are also sealed to block out water and dust, with an IP rating up to IP68. They are also designed to use low torque and make very little electrical noise. This low torque prevents any strain on small, precise motors inside the machine.

When to Choose Through-Bore Slip Rings

Through-bore slip rings should be used for machines that are bigger and stronger. They are usually used when there is a need for wires or shafts to pass through the hole in the center. You would usually see them used in:

●Rotary tables

●Wind turbines

●CNC machines

●CT scanners

●Factory arms

●Heavy robots

The hole in the center prevents the parts from breaking or bending while turning. It can also be used to pass a coolant fluid line to the workpiece. They can carry both power and data signal lines at once. Not only that, but you can use them for analog or digital signals too.

The bore sizes can range from a few millimeters for small robots to several inches for big factory machines. When a lot of data signal lines are needed, through-hole slip rings work because they can carry over 100 channels due to internal spacing. Their metal casings protect the shafts from any potential damage in dusty or wet environments.

Design Considerations & Selection Guide

Mechanical Fit

You should first check the physical space of the machine. Most importantly, check if it is something that requires a hole in the center. If it doesn’t, then a Capsule ring is a better choice. Also, look at where and how the ring will fit. A Capsule ring will save you space, while a through-hole slip ring needs more room.

Electrical Demands

Take note of how many channels you need and how much current each line must carry. You need to make sure the use of each circuit is accounted for. If you’re only working with small power loads, then go with Capsule rings. However, if you’re worried about EMI sensitivity and need more channels, then a through-hole slip ring is a better choice.

Environmental Conditions

Whether you’re working in a clean, dry room or a dusty factory, they all need to be taken note of. A standard Capsule slip ring is best for a dry and clean environment. On the other hand, through-hole slip rings last longer in wet or dusty areas.

Budget & Timeline

If you’re on a tight budget, Capsule slip rings cost cheaper and can be easily procured within a short time. It is perfect for fast tests or low-cost products. But a custom through-hole slip ring costs more and takes more time to build. You need to take note of this when planning.

Maintenance & Lifespan

Lastly, consider how long these parts are supposed to last. Through-bore slip rings have strong brushes and seals, which allow them to last longer. They also need less care over time. However, Capsule slip rings wear out faster, especially under heavy loads. You should pick between these two based on how you plan to handle maintenance.

Conclusion

The choice all comes down to the needs of your project. Small and simple Capsule rings are best for jobs where space is tight. On the other hand, through-bore slip rings are best for high-power jobs and tough settings. Pick the right one to get the best performance.

NBG, as a professional manufacturer of through bore slip ring and capsule slip rings, possesses a robust slip ring R&D team and over a decade of industry experience.

Do you want to learn more about slip rings? Explore the product information via the links below：

Through Bore Slip Ring: https://nbgslipring.com/product/through-bore-slip-ring

Capsule Slip Ring: https://nbgslipring.com/product/capsule-slip-ring

Alternatively, you can contact us directly via our official email address: sales@nbgslipring.com

NBG looks forward to connecting with you！