Knowledge Base:  

Page of 2
Are the variable frequency drives phase sensitive?
The input wiring is not sensitive to phase. If one would change one set of input leads, the rotation would not change. The output of the drive is sensitive to phase. Changing one set of leads to the
Are there any noise benefits of a Brushless motor?
Yes, with the elimination of brushes, BLDC motors can be regulated to slower operating speeds without sacrificing torque. Brushless motors can also utilize skewed magnets to reduce the effect of cogg
Are two power sources needed for integral control motors?
Motors can be programmed to function with only one power source. This scheme would be a setup where on/off is the only requirement. Typically, motors that will speed regulate, will require two power
Can a mechanical motor coupling affect the operation of the drive?
Yes, but more as a problem to the entire system including the drive. Here is a list of Do’s and Don’ts: DO: Determine power requirements using both HP and torque to choose the proper
Can I run my application at extremely low speeds?
Three major problems exist with both conventional methods of motor control and VFD control. (1) When a motor is directly coupled and run at low speed it becomes very inefficient. One could go with
Does the motor need a chassis ground connection?
Yes, for several reasons. This is for protection in the event of a short in the motor that puts a live voltage on its housing. Motors and other components exhibit leakage currents that increase with
How can I calculate my power needs?
A simple formula can be used to roughly determine what is needed power-wise. Here’s an example: Motor Speed: 3600 RPM Motor Torque: 340 mNm = 48 inoz = 3
How do I control speed and keep it constant?
A sophisticated control system would be required to keep the speed regulated to a tight tolerance. Utilizing an encoder feedback, the customer’s control can monitor and adjust the 0-5VDC input can
My pump is losing speed; does the drive have a problem?
Pumps are divided into three basic categories: centrifugal, rotary, and reciprocating. Take any of the three types and break it down further into four parts, the rotating element, the casing, the m
My stepper motor is running hot to the touch. Is there something wrong?
Stepper motors are designed to run hot. Our Hybrid stepper motors are rated to run in an ambient temperature range of 20 degrees C to 50 degrees C and can have a temperature rise of 80 degrees C. It
What are the advantages of using a brushless motor versus a brush style motor?
No brush noise, efficient, durable, robust, easy to cool Linear current/torque Synchronous speed control Position and Speed Servo (open/closed loop) Customizable Performance Extended Life
What determines the life expectancy of a Brushed DC motor?
Typically, the brushes are the limiting component in a Brush DC motor's life expectancy. The life expectancy of the brush is dependent on application parameters such as torque, speed, duty cycle and
What determines the life expectancy of a Brushless motor?
The life expectations of a BLDC motor are dependent on the operating conditions and environment. Under “ideal” conditions, a BLDC motor-only will have minimal wear and will have a long life span.
What does "inverter" mean as opposed to a drive/amplifier which are also used to describe the electronic unit that controls a motor.
The terms inverter, drive, and amplifier are used somewhat interchangeably in industry. But there are subtle differences. A drive can refer to the motor, the control electronics, or both. This term
What environmental considerations are there?
Typical environmental temps for the motor should be run in a low humidity environment with an ambient temperature range of –20 C to +50 C. BLDC motors do have IP ratings associated to them and limi
What is a brushless motor?
A Brushless DC (BLDC) motor is a rotating electric machine where the stator is a classic three-phase stator like that of an induction motor and the rotor has surface-mounted permanent magnets. In thi
What is the difference between a closed loop stepper motor controller and an open loop stepper motor controller?
In an open loop stepper motor controller, there is no feedback going from the motor to the controller, so the controller cannot make any necessary adjustments. This type of controller is effective wh
What is the difference between dual voltage and dual wound motor?
Dual voltage is a reference to a motor that can use either of two different voltage levels, usually 230V or 460V. The motor windings have multiple taps, and the connections vary depending on which vo
What is the difference between Unipolar and Bipolar motors?
A traditional unipolar wound motor has six lead wires. Each winding has a center tap. Unipolar wound motors are typically used in applications requiring high speed and high torque. A traditional bipo
What is the duty cycle?
The duty cycle is the percent of time a device is on vs. off. It can be the ratio of operating time of a motor to its resting time. This parameter usually is specified in association with the allowab