White Paper: Motion Control
The Engineer’s Guide to Selecting the Best Gearmotor
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This technical white paper provides a practical, step-by-step guide to selecting and sizing gearmotors for optimal machine performance. Learn how to evaluate power supply types, torque and speed requirements, duty cycles, and space constraints. The paper also compares AC, DC, and brushless DC motor options and offers real-world examples presented by Bodine Electric’s application engineers. Ideal for machine design engineers challenged to create compact, efficient, and cost-effective systems.
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Overview
"The Engineer’s Guide to Selecting the Best Gearmotor" is a comprehensive resource aimed at helping engineers choose and size gearmotors for optimal machine performance. As modern machine design evolves, there is an increasing demand for variable-speed capabilities and low-voltage configurations. The guide emphasizes the importance of understanding application requirements and translating them into specific gearmotor specifications.
Key considerations include the power supply type—AC or DC—based on the machine's location and function. For instance, stationary machines like conveyors typically use AC power, while mobile machines or those in remote areas often rely on DC batteries. The guide also highlights the significance of torque and duty cycle, explaining how different applications may require continuous, intermittent, or fluctuating load operations.
Engineers are encouraged to evaluate maintenance needs, as different motor types have varying maintenance requirements. For example, brushed DC motors may require more frequent brush replacements in continuous operations, while three-phase inverter-duty gearmotors may offer a more practical solution for long-term use.
The guide also discusses the impact of gear design on performance, noting that spur gears are the least quiet, while non-metallic gears can reduce noise but may compromise torque capacity. Worm gearing is suggested as a quieter alternative due to its rolling action.
Ultimately, the white paper stresses the importance of precise sizing and selection of gearmotors. Oversizing can lead to unnecessary costs, while undersizing may result in overheating, premature wear, or failure. By carefully evaluating application requirements and utilizing manufacturer resources, engineers can make informed decisions that enhance machine performance and longevity. This structured approach ensures that gearmotors meet the evolving demands of modern engineering projects.