How to Select the Correct Servo Motor
When it comes to automation, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is selecting the right servo motor for your application as they are incredibly versatile and allow for speed, accuracy and flexibility. Learn more about what they are, what they do, and the factors to consider when selecting one to use.
What is a Servo Motor?
A servo motor is a type of electric motor that is used in various applications such as robotics, automation, and other industrial and mechanical systems. Servo motors are designed to move to an exact position and hold that position until instructed to move again.
Servo motors are typically classified by their output shafts, which can be either rotary (a continuous rotation) or linear (a single-axis movement). They can be further categorized according to the type of feedback device used to control the motor, such as a resolver or encoder. Servo motors are used in many types of machines, from manufacturing robots to CNC mills and lathes. They are also used in many consumer products such as RC cars, planes, and boats. In addition, servo motors are used in medical devices and surgical instruments.
How do Servo Motors Work?
Servo motors consist of a motor, feedback device, drive circuitry, and control board. The feedback device (usually an encoder) senses the motion of the motor and sends the signal back to the control board. The control board then compares the signal to its pre-programmed goal and adjusts the drive circuit accordingly to get the motor back on track.
The servo motor can be controlled either directly with a control board or remotely through a controller. Its range of motion is usually between -90 and +90 degrees, which is determined by the limits of the feedback device. This range can be increased or decreased depending on the application.
The Three Types of Servo Motors
These are the three types of servo motors typically used for various applications. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the type of servo motor chosen will depend on the application’s requirements.
- Positional Rotation Servo Motors: A positional rotation servo motor is the most common type of servo motor and is used in applications where precise angular control is necessary. It is capable of rotating a shaft through a range of angles and can be accurately controlled to move the shaft to any desired angle within its range.
- Continuous Rotation Servo Motors: This type of servo motor is used when the application requires an unlimited range of motion. Unlike positional rotation servos, these motors can rotate continuously in either direction without any stop points or limits. They can be used for applications such as robotic arms, conveyor belts, and wheeled robots.
- Linear Servo Motors: Linear servo motors are capable of producing linear motion instead of rotational motion. They use a combination of magnets and coils to generate forces that push or pull a linear load. These motors can be used for applications such as linear actuators, industrial automation, and robotics.
Factors to Consider When Selecting One
- The power supply voltage: Most servo motors operate on DC voltages such as 12V, 24V, and 48V. Therefore, the power supply voltage of the servo motor must match the power source being used.
- Speed: The speed of the motor is another important factor to consider when selecting a servo motor. The speed of a servo motor is typically measured in RPM (revolutions per minute). Depending on the application, the speed of the motor may need to be adjusted accordingly.
- Force: The force or torque is typically measured in oz-in or Nm and should be chosen according to the load requirements of the application. Some applications may require higher torque than others, so it is important to choose a motor that can handle the force needed.
- Availability: This is especially important when selecting a motor, as delays in obtaining a motor can lead to costly delays in production.
Work with the Experts at Air & Hydraulic Equipment
At Air & Hydraulic Equipment, Inc., we’re here to help you with any of your industrial automation needs. We offer custom engineering, programming, fabrication, and machining. Our certified team has the knowledge to create safe machines and keep them running smoothly.
