Based on Jinghong ship lift project,we discuss the application of brakes in the hydro-floating ship lift.Comparatively analyzing the arrangement characteristics and operation mode of breaks in the electric-drive and hydro-floating ship lift,we expound new technical problems of breaks in the hydro-floating ship lift at present,and propose the design indices and requirements of brakes’ braking force,braking mode and synchronism.We also discuss the application scope of brakes.The normally open brake is recommended for the hydro-floating ship lift. The brakes will be used while docking with upstream-downstream docking in the ship chamber when the ship lift is in normal operation.