Electric Motors – Understanding the Basics

Electric motors can be found at the heart of a great deal of modern technology, powering everything from household appliances like electric toothbrushes and fridges to industrial conveyor belts and automatic doors. But for many, this vital piece of technology goes unnoticed and unappreciated despite our complete dependency on it. How do electric motors work? In essence an electric motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, making it possible for a variety of devices and systems to function. To break it down further electric motors require three elements:

1. Electrical Input — An electric current flows through a wire coil inside the motor, generating a magnetic field.
2. Magnetic Interaction —The magnetic field interacts with permanent magnets (or other electromagnets) in the motor, causing the rotor (a rotating component) to move.
3. Mechanical Output — As the rotor turns, it generates rotational force or torque, which can be used to power anything from conveyor belts to kebab skewers.

The benefits of this process is that it is very efficient and can be carefully controlled making electrical motors ideal for both small appliances and large-scale applications. The most fundamental elements of electric motors are speed and torque, which determine how a motor performs in various applications. Torque is a measure of the rotational force that an electric motor generates, and is the force required to drive the load. High torque is vital for applications which require heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling, and the higher the torque the heavier the load it can manage. Torque is paired with speed. The speed refers to how fast the motor’s rotor spins and determines how fast the mechanical output is delivered. The right combination of torque and speed makes electric motors incredibly versatile as some applications require high torque and low speeds or vice versa. Torque and speed can be carefully controlled according to the application requirements.

Types of Motors Obviously, as electric motors are widely used across industries, one size does not fit all, as different applications have specific requirements and different motor types are more suited to particular industries. DC Motors (Direct Current Motors) — DC motors use direct current (DC) electricity which flows through the motor’s windings in a single direction. They offer precise speed control and can generate high torque at low speeds, making them ideal for applications that require controlled movement. They are ideal motors for use in electric wheelchairs, stair lifts, or conveyor systems. Additionally, these motors are generally compact making them ideal for applications with a small size envelope. DC motors require regular maintenance due to the brush components and therefore can be considered to be less efficient than brushless options (see below). AC Motors (Alternating Current Motors) — AC motors run on alternating current (AC), where the electrical current changes direction periodically. These motors are known for their durability and efficiency, making them ideal for continuous-use applications and can often be found in industrial machinery such as HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems and medical pumps. They are known for their durability and reliability but they have a limited speed control and a higher power consumption. Brushless DC Motors (BLDC) — BLDC motors are similar to DC motors but without the need for brushes. Instead they use electronic controllers to switch the current, which reduces wear and tear meaning they have a longer lifespan than their brushed counterparts. BLDC motors are often used in applications where long life and low maintenance are critical, such as medical devices, and robotics. BLDC motors have excellent speed control, are quiet running, are incredibly efficient and have a long lifespan.  However, they can be more expensive initially and can have more complex control systems than other electric motors. Geared Motors — Geared motors combine an electric motor with a gear system. The gears help adjust the motor’s speed and torque. They are excellent at providing high torque within a compact size envelope. They can often be found in industrial automation, mobility solutions and the agricultural industry. Geared motors are able to provide high torque at low speeds and offer greater control than other motor types. With the extra gear components there can be more frequent wear and tear and the initial investment can be higher than other motors.

Applications Electric motors are critical in many sectors, including transportation, commercial, industrial and domestic, providing the driving force behind various everyday applications. Here at Parvalux we provide motors for numerous industries including: Mobility Solutions — Motors feature greatly within the mobility solution industry and are essential for electric wheelchairs, stair lifts, and mobility scooters. DC motors are often used as their reliability, safety, quiet operation and smooth running are essential as well as being able to stop/start smoothly. Industry Automation — Within the warehouse environment, automated systems all rely on motors to function; from conveyor systems, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and packaging machines to robotic arms. Healthcare and Medical Devices — Electric motors are fundamental to the medical industry, as they are utilized in patient hoists and lifts, diagnostic equipment and pumps. The motors need to be reliable, and durable, as well as be able to run for long periods of time with minimal noise. Transportation — The transportation sector benefits from electric motors for their energy efficiency and eco-friendly nature and can be found within the door systems and windscreen wipers on trains and boats as well as the ticket barriers, escalators, lifts and moving walkways. Renewable Energy — There is a growing focus on renewable energy and Parvalux motors can also be found within this industry in wind turbines and solar trackers. Electric motors are highly energy efficient, have precise control and are durable within harsh environmental conditions. Partnering with Parvalux Here at Parvalux, with more than 75 years’ experience we understand electric motors and we understand our customers’ needs. We provide high quality, reliable custom-built and off-the-shelf motor and gearbox solutions. Our motors can be found across the globe in numerous industries including building automation, materials handling, mobility solutions, transport, logistics and leisure. All of our motors are designed and manufactured to the highest standards, ensuring longevity, durability, and cutting-edge performance for all applications. Our motors are efficient, reliable, and cost-effective and can be bought off-the shelf, as a modular set of components or completely bespoke meaning we will be able to provide the motor you need to suit your specific requirements. If you would like to find out more about how our motors can drive your project please contact the team here at Parvalux for a no obligation chat.