There are as many electric motor and gearbox combinations as there are uses for electric motors throughout various global industries. Every industry, whether manufacturing, transport, food preparation or corporate business, utilizes motors in their day-to-day operations.
Applications of Electric Motors
The range of motors and gearboxes we have at Parvalux have been used in various industries globally including:
Industrial Automation – As the industry becomes increasingly automated there is more calls for electric motors ranging from conveyor belts, robotics and assembly lines within warehouses to the palletizing and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) or Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). Electric motors within industrial automation enable precise control when paired with a motor controller and reliable repetition of manual tasks which are both cost and energy efficient.
Within industrial automation, there are various applications which mean the motors and gearboxes need to be configured in a specific way to meet precise performance criteria (speed and torque). One size does not fit all, but at Parvalux with our off-the-shelf, customizable and bespoke options we will always be able to meet the requirements of the customer.
Materials Handling – Electronic motors are central to creating volume within the materials handling industry and are responsible for powering conveyor belts, lifts, cranes and forklifts, which facilitate and increase the movement of goods within distribution centers, warehouses and ports.
Electric motors within the materials handling industry are required to be quiet running as well as energy efficient through producing lower emissions making them suitable for indoor use. They also need to be small in order to fit into the smallest space available without losing power and performance.
Transportation – Motors are used frequently within the transportation industry from escalators or moving walkways, automated doors, ticket barriers and lifts. Additionally, motors drive auxiliary systems such as HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), and other components within trains.
These motors need to be able to work with heavy traffic, whilst remaining reliable, smooth and quiet running especially in urban areas, as well as fitting within small space envelopes.
Mobility Solutions – Many of the modern mobility aids such as stair lifts, hoists and wheelchairs would not be able to function without the use of electric motors. These motors are therefore vital for providing mobility and independence to the patients with mobility issues as well as aiding medical staff with the routine care of many patients.
Challenges with mobility solutions are the potential heavy weight loads, and Parvalux motors are suitable from pediatric to bariatric (>500lb). These motors typically require a high torque and a low to moderate speed to move patients safely. Additionally, they need to be smooth and quiet running with quick start/stop actions.
Medical Industry – From ventilators and respiratory devices to fluid pumps and diagnostic aids, motors are a vital foundation to the medical industry and the machinery they rely on. Even in close work like surgery, robots are frequently being used, which are powered by an electric motor and controller, providing high precision and dexterity, easing the complexity of even the most delicate operations.
Within the medical industry there are a number of challenges which include a small size envelope within which to fit the motor and gearbox, whilst at the same time not losing power, or speed. Additionally, as the majority of the machinery are used within close proximity to patients, smooth and more importantly quiet running is essential. They also need to be reliable, and be able to work for long periods of time, in challenging environments and therefore are required to be easy and quick to repair and maintain.
Food Preparation – From preparing to presenting and storing the food electric motors are key. From hot beverage machines in coffee shops, to candy floss machines at Christmas fairs to the all-important kebab turner for a late-night post-pub snack – none would be possible without the electric motor.
There are various challenges which need to be faced by designers with machinery for the food industry including regulation on hygiene and sanitation, extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) as well as being easy to maintain. Machinery within the food industry often has to function for long periods in challenging environments, and will suffer from wear and tear. Limiting this and making maintenance straightforward is key.
Common Challenges
When choosing the right motor to fit your specific application and requirements there are some common challenges which apply to all industries.
Space Constraints – Most applications will require a large level of power, precision and performance but within a very small space. This is something we are used to dealing with at Parvalux and are proud that our motors can be compact yet powerful.
Energy Efficiency – Many OEMs seek motor solutions which balance high efficiency with lower energy consumption which can reduce operational costs for the end customer as well as helping them meet their sustainability goals. The Parvalux range of motors are energy efficient without compromising on performance.
Easy Maintenance – It’s inevitable that with constant use, the motor and gearbox will suffer with wear and tear and will require maintenance. Parvalux motors are built with durability in mind to increase the life-span of a motor therefore reducing maintenance time.
Compatibility – In order to aid with upgrading machinery, or integrating into legacy control systems, sensors, and other components Parvalux motors are compatible with many meaning it is easy to integrate new motors. Additionally upgrading motor or gearbox parts is easier as they are compatible with a number of products meaning customizing the motor to meet your requirements makes the whole process simpler.
Value of Electric Motors
With electric motors being integrated into so many processes within numerous industries there is clearly a number of benefits and a great deal of value in integrating motors and gearboxes into your projects.
Sustainable – With many businesses looking to improve their sustainability electric motors can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
Energy Efficient – Electric motors often operate at higher efficiency rates compared to combustion engines, translating to lower energy consumption and reduced operating costs.
Reliable – With fewer moving parts electric motors have reduced maintenance needs and increased reliability, resulting in higher uptime for machinery and vehicles.
Choosing the right motor is vital in order to get the most suitable amount of speed and torque as well as the size of the finished item. This is where Parvalux can help as we have a number of options for both motors and gearboxes which can be used off the shelf or customized. Alternatively, you can contact the team to talk about fully bespoke options.
