i-BRUSH

Brush, Main Unit, HMI Graphic for web

Intelligent Carbon Brush Remote Monitoring

Check real-time brush conditions and schedule maintenance before issues arise
With integrated sensors in the carbon brush, the i-BRUSH continuously monitors brushes for wear and performance, increasing reliability and saving you from costly downtime

Generators and motors face constant wear and tear, and inefficient brush systems can lead to costly downtime and increased maintenance needs. Manually monitoring brush performance is both time-consuming and risky.

Using advanced sensors and connected technology, the i-BRUSH system provides continuous data on wear and performance that you can access from your PC, smart phone, or the optional console (available with versions 2.0 and Core). The i-BRUSH system not only extends the lifespan of your motors and generators, but also optimizes operational reliability and reduces maintenance costs.

The i-BRUSH Monitors Critical Data to Secure Uptime

  • Brush wear
  • Temperature in the brush
  • Current in the brush
  • Current distribution between brushes
  • Temperature & humidity in slip ring compartment
  • Optional in i-BRUSH 2.0: Brush vibrations (pk-pk)
  • Designed to monitor up to 100 brushes (i-BRUSH Connect and Core) or more than 100 (i-BRUSH 2.0)
When one of the monitored values deviates from preset parameters, an alarm is sent via text message and/or email
Picture of Laptop with i-BRUSH screen

Prevent Failures & Identify Performance Issues

The i-BRUSH helps identify:

  • Arcing
  • Potential Flashover
  • Abnormal Current Distribution (“Selective Action”)
  • Broken Springs
  • Improper Installation
  • Slip Ring Degradation
  • Fast Brush Wear
  • And More

Benefits of the i-BRUSH System

Proactive Maintenance

Avoid unexpected downtime by receiving early warnings about brush wear.

Extended Lifespan

Optimized brush contact reduces wear on both brushes and commutators.

Cost Savings

Lower maintenance costs by replacing brushes at the right time—not too early, not too late.

Operational Reliability

Ensure safer and more stable operation of your critical systems.

Sustainability

Reduce unnecessary replacements, save resources, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Easy to Install

Fits most common brush holder/slip ring designs on the market
Can be retrofitted to any existing installation
Most brush grades and styles are available to fit the i-BRUSH design
You can select and change the number of i-BRUSH brushes to fit your needs

Easy to Use

Customize alarms sent to your email & data acquisition system
Easily identify trends with charts
Instantly gauge brush systems status
Helwig expert support available for recommendations

Typical Applications for i-BRUSH Systems

i-BRUSH 2.0: Large slip rings in gas/steam, hydro, and phase condenser application

i-BRUSH Core: Industrial slip rings and larger hydro

i-BRUSH Connect: Wind power and smaller hydro

Contact Our Team to Request a Quote