Compare small DC motors from different vendors 3

[Clyde38]

I’m interested in finding the most useful criteria for determining the best motor for various designs. The motors would be of the small DC permanent magnet type. By small, I am referring to less than two inches in diameter. The motor could be brushed, brushless, or stepper. The motor could require a gearhead. I’m not trying to determine which technology to use. I’m more concerned with getting the best motor for the application from the offerings by different vendors. I’m restricted to the data in the catalogs they provide. I believe that some “specmanship” is involved in the catalogs.

 

[alexit]

What is definition of "best"? Most powerful, lightest weight, most energy efficient, meets VDE CSA UL, cheapest, highest thermal efficiency? Too many possible to list.

For machine tools we use combinations of power density and thermal effects, with cost being last factor.

There are 100 ways to rate an electric motor, specs lie all days because they are not telling you testing method used for rating. Be sure to compare same ratings at same ambient/cooling system as many time low cost motor may have been tested different.

 

[blacksea]

The reliability and tech support must be taken into account also. Because all the above following well-known motor and gear manufacturers maybe suggested - Maxon and Faulhaber (former minimotor).

 

[powerjunx]

To rate the motor as "best", a lot of possibilities to deal with it. Application, Efficiency, Accuracy issues were just few of them.

 

[Clyde38]

Thanks to all of you. I am reminded that communication is an art. And I am in full agreement that the term “Best” is far-reaching. I think that would be a topic in itself! I’m assuming accountability for determining the proper technology for the application, as well as the most desirable attributes of the motor. I really want to determine the most useful information that is published by the manufacturer to make this determination. All of them provide similar data; resistance, Ke, thermal resistance, etc. Some however publish terms such as “Assigned Power” or “Max. Continuous Torque”. Even the thermal characteristics are not qualified as to the measurement method. I’m sure that a conversation with each of the manufacturers would be enlightening, but I would like to try to make a more informed decision based on what is available on the internet. Most of the motor manufacturers have a certain data set for their products. Again, thanks for your comments. They have been helpful.