BF & BFL - Series
BF - series balancers provide true balance or Zero Gravity for tools weighing up to 24 lb [11 kg], anywhere within the active cable travel. Equipped with both automatic and manual safety lock, BF & BFL balancers prevent tools or loads from falling in the event that a unit loses tension or if a power spring failure would occur.
Product Features
Ordering information
Unit Dimension Specification
Feature Identifiers for External Tension Adjustment
This system employs a spring loaded knob and a positive manual ratchet design. To add tension, turn ergo knob clockwise or towards “+” until desired tension is reached. To remove tension, pull and turn the knob counterclockwise one ratchet at a time.
This system employs a spring loaded and positive spring loaded ratchet cam design. To add tension, turn ergo knob clockwise or towards “+” until desired tension is reached. To remove tension, hold ergo knob whilst pushing on the cam – the knob will turn counterclockwise one ratchet at a time.
This system allows the cam to manually lock in place at a desired position by means of a lock lever. To add tension, insert a hex key into the cam and turn it clockwise or in the direction of the “+” sign. Do not release the hex key until the cam is locked in place by the lock lever.
Designed to easily add or remove tension for loads of up to 375 lbs (170 kg) using nut runner tools. Add tension by simply turning bolt clockwise or in “+” direction. Remove tension by turning bolt counter-clockwise or in “–” direction.
This system works by locking the main shaft in place by exerting pressure which is evenly dispersed around the circumference of the main shaft. Add tension by simply turning main shaft counter-clockwise or in the “+” direction. To remove tension, first hold main shaft by means of a manual key and then press on the spring clutch lever to allow rotation of shaft.
Add tension by simply turning main shaft counter-clockwise or in the “+” direction until desired tension is reached. To remove tension, first hold main shaft by means of a manual key and then push on the Cam Lever to allow rotation of shaft in the “–” or clockwise direction.
This design allows the unit to build friction instead of building tension. It builds up friction as the cable is pulled out of the unit. Simple tension adjustment using a flat driver or a coin. To achieve desired Ergonomics, add friction by turning the shaft in “+” direction or remove friction by turning the shaft in “–” direction.
Other series in this category
What loads are positioners suitable for?
Positioners are made for light, low-cycle loads such as lamps, heat lamps and signs. A friction brake holds the position without extra force; moving the load downward needs very little effort, while moving it upward means lifting its full weight.
What does a static discharge reel do?
It provides a ground path via a retractable cable and ground clamp, dissipating static build-up in hazardous areas such as petrochemical plants or shipyards. The power spring keeps light constant tension on the cable and retrieves it automatically; a ratchet lock lets you position the clamp.
What are torque reels used for?
Torque reels suspend and position pendant control stations and similar equipment up to about 6.8 kg with 4.6 m of cable travel. A lock lets the operator stop the pendant at any height; a slight pull releases it and the pendant retracts to the upper position.
When should I use a retractor instead of a balancer?
Use a retractor when the tool should get out of the way as soon as it is released, for example nut runners or screwdrivers on an assembly line. Use a balancer when the operator needs the tool to hover in place while working with both hands.
What is the difference between the F and FLS series?
The 10/22 FLS and FLSR retractors offer exactly the same performance as the 10/22 F and FLR, but are equipped with an automatic safety lock that arrests the load if the unit loses tension or a power spring fails. They meet DIN 15112.
Which balancer series is right for light tools?
For tools up to about 5 kg the AB / ABRL series is the entry-level choice. For 1.4–11 kg the BF / BFL series offers a light-duty balancer with a spring-fracture safeguard. From about 8 kg upwards, look at the standard-duty EB family.
What is the difference between the EA and EL series?
They are the same balancer. The EL series adds a ratchet lock that can be switched on or off and holds the tool at any position along the cable travel. Choose EL if operators need to park the tool at a working height.
What is the difference between the LA, KA, JA and EB series?
LA, KA and JA are heavy-duty balancers with the full safety set (spring-fracture safeguard, manual lock, fall protection). They differ in the number of power springs and therefore in load range: LA has three springs for roughly 79–168 kg, KA two springs for 38–110 kg and JA one spring for 9–45 kg.
EB is the standard-duty balancer with aluminium housing for 8.2–27.3 kg. Every EB comes with an automatic safety lock; R versions add a ratchet lock and S versions have a short 1.5 m cable.
What is a spring-fracture safeguard (automatic safety lock)?
A mechanism that locks the cable drum the moment a power spring loses tension or breaks, so the suspended tool cannot fall. It is required by DIN 15112 for many applications and is standard on the LA, KA, JA, EA, EL and EB series.
Do you sell directly or through distributors?
Both. You can request a quote directly through the inquiry list on this site. Our products are also available through resellers in several countries – they are listed on the Contact page. In Germany, stock items can be ordered from our reseller Bürklin; the link is on each series page.
Where do I find spec sheets, manuals and maintenance information?
All documents are collected on the Technical Support page – search by model or series and download what you need. If a document is missing, contact us and we will send it to you.
Can I get a longer cable, a different housing colour or other modifications?
Yes. Many units can be adapted, for example with a different cable length, cable type, housing colour or custom labelling. Add the product to your inquiry and describe what you need in the item note; we will check feasibility and quote it.
How do I request a quote?
Add the products you are interested in to your inquiry list from any product table, choose add-ons and quantities, and leave a note per item if you have questions or need a modification. Then send the inquiry or export it as a PDF. Our team will get back to you with a quote and answers to your questions.
How do I choose the right load capacity?
Weigh the complete tool as it hangs: the tool itself plus hose, cable, fittings and any attachments. Then choose a model whose load range contains that weight, ideally towards the middle of the range so the spring tension can be fine-tuned in both directions. If the weight sits at the edge of two ranges, the higher-capacity model is usually the better choice.
What do Light, Standard and Heavy Industrial Duty mean?
The duty class describes the environment and cycle rate a unit is built for, not only the weight it carries. Light Duty units have plastic housings and suit low-cycle assembly work. Standard Duty units use sheet-metal or aluminium housings for general assembly lines. Heavy Duty units are built for high cycle rates, harsh environments and the heaviest tools, and ship with the full safety set. Pick the duty class first, then the load range.
What do the letters at the end of a model name mean (L, R, RL, S)?
L, R and RL stand for a ratchet lock: the unit can hold the tool at any height along the cable travel (for example BF → BFL, EB → EBR, AB → ABRL).
S depends on the series. In the EB series it stands for a short cable of 1.5 m (for example 60EBS) – every EB balancer already comes with an automatic safety lock. In the F series, FLS stands for the version with automatic safety lock. EBSR combines the short cable with a ratchet lock.
What is the difference between a balancer, a retractor and a positioner?
Balancers create a zero-gravity effect: the tool feels weightless anywhere along the cable travel and stays where you leave it. Retractors pull the tool back up as soon as you let go, so you hold it down while working and it returns to the top position afterwards. Positioners use a friction brake: you move the tool by hand and it stays put without any spring tension.
In need of Repair Kits or Customized Solutions?
Our products have been designed with longevity in mind. If you need a specific repair part, you can contact us at any time. We will help you to get back up and running as quickly as possible.
If you want to customize your Aero-Motive® products, e.g. choose a different housing color or labeling, contact us and we will discuss your request with you.