Choosing The Right Electric Motor for Your Project

There are literally hundreds of electric motor types, specs, purposes and combinations.  From small applications in smart phones, to large industrial facilities, electric motors have many different types and uses.  It’s an easy decision to include new electrical motors, or upgrade to better performing motors, but how do you choose the right motor for your application?  What specifications matter most?  We’ll cover the basics to know, and how we can help with your next automated project solution.

What Electric Motors Are Available on the Market?

There are three main categories of motors that are used in many industries:

• AC asynchronous motor (single-phase or three-phase) are simple to build and offer minimal maintenance requirements.  They have long lifespans with solid construction.  They are well suited as a solution in applications requiring continuous movement and few gear changes.  You will find them used frequently with conveyors, fans, and pumps.
• DC synchronous motor (direct current, brushed and brushless) are used in many appliances, automobiles, adult hobbies, and children’s toys.  They are inexpensive, but potentially require more maintenance depending on the environment and type.  Brushless DC motors may require a specialized regulator to offer better speed control and they may need gearboxes for unique torque applications.
• Stepper motors are used when accuracy for specific speeds is a requirement of the application.  They are low cost, but still offer good durability.  Specific characteristics to note are the torque and load requirements, the number of steps required for the application, the physical size of the motor, and the investment cost available.

What Should You Consider for When Purchasing Electric Motors?

• Application – Whether you plan to install electric motors to a new system or retrofit an older application, understanding if the motor will run continuously or vary speed will determine the type needed.
• Environment – A dusty environment may need a specific type of motor to last, and a wet environment may need a different type or casing. Knowing what type of environment the motor must survive in is key.
• Power availability – Some motors may require just 12-volts, while industrial sized motors may need 220 or 480-volts to run correctly.  Knowing what power is available and needed will help specify what your options are.
• Current – Your electrical system must be able to handle the current load for any motor in the system.  Adding too large of a motor may overload the system.
• Voltage – Your system may have D/C (direct current) available, but your needs may dictate A/C (alternating current).  Knowing what you have available, and what is needed, is a step in the right direction.
• Speed – You must know how fast your electric motor must spin to drive your system.  Larger motors may only spin at low speeds to supply large amounts of torque ad need a gear-reducer to adjust the output to the system.
• Space requirements – If you have unlimited space available, any electric motor option is available.  If you have a confined space, it may limit your options, and you may also have to consider the mounting options required.
• Energy efficiency – Choosing an electric motor that consumes less energy will reduce its power impact and effect on your power bill.

What Electric Motor Solutions Does AEC Offer?

Automation Electric and Controls currently utilizes multiple options for electric motors and reducers to cover most projects no matter the environment.  These are our standard options, and also offer as the best solutions for your application:

• 3 Phase TEFC Motors – These general-purpose industrial motors are high quality and offer premium efficiency that are suited for many applications.  Depending on horsepower needed, they are available in rolled steel, cast iron, and with optional C-face to offer excellent durability.
• Industrial Electric Motors – Industrial motors are meant for harsh environments with unique demands.  Typical applications include rock crushers, chippers, band mills and other high torque applications.
• Washdown Motors – These specialized motors are used in food processing plants and other industrial applications where frequent washdowns occur.  These stainless-steel motors are chemical resistant and feature welded junction boxes to make the best performance in high pressure washdown environments.  They can withstand water and chemical washing without concern of limiting their lifecycle and durability.
• Single Phase Motors – These motors are available from less than 1 horsepower up to 10 horsepower for use where 3 phase power is not available.  These motors are also available in Farm Duty which are engineered for the demanding environments of agriculture and feature manually resetting overloads.
• Helical Gear Reducer – These gear boxes are built for high efficiency and strength with low noise. They are designed for use with C-face motors and do not require a special coupling to the motor.
• Shaft Mount Reducers – The shafts and gears are manufactured from high-grade steel, case hardened and precision ground to AGMA standards. These boxes are available from size 2 to size 10 in several ratios.

If your work environment needs or requires specialized technology to integrate new electric motors for safe operation, an automated system can offer the flexibility and control to keep business running smoothly.  We can design and build custom automated systems that integrate with Motor Control Centers or Operator Controls for a complete cost-effective solution.

Automation Electric and Controls Inc. is also a licensed ETL 508A panel building shop.  Our in-house design team offers complete solutions tailored to meet your business needs.  Our quality inspections ensure that your custom-made Automated Control Systems meet your exact specifications.  We offer startup and aftersales service for your complete systems, plus keep a large inventory of enclosures, breakers, motors, wire, relays, contactors, and much more.  When you need immediate service, or the best price with the least amount of hassle, we’ll be there to assist you.  Contact us through our website or call (360) 428-0201.