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[Basic knowledge for selecting stepping motors]

Stepping motor selection

A stepping motor is a motor that is controlled to rotate a fixed angle each time a pulse signal is input.
By adjusting the frequency of the pulse signal, it is possible to move the actuator to the desired position accurately, making it possible to achieve simple positioning at low cost.
Stepping motors are very useful once you know how to use them, but what is the process and what should you consider when choosing one?

*For basic information about stepping motors, please see "What is a stepping motor? An explanation of its structure, types, usage (drive system and control method), benefits and features."

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1. Stepping motor selection process

  • Determine the drive mechanism
  • Calculate the motor shaft converted load torque
  • Determine the operation pattern and driving conditions
  • Select a motor temporarily and calculate the acceleration torque
  • Calculate the motor shaft converted driving torque
  • Determine the suitability of the selected motor

For details on each item, please download the materials. Please feel free to download the materials and make use of them.

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2. Points to consider when selecting a stepping motor

When selecting a stepping motor, the points to pay attention to and the priorities will vary depending on the mechanism and driving conditions of the device being used, but generally speaking, the following are the main points to consider:

1. Stepper Motor Torque Requirements

It is necessary to select a motor that can generate the torque required to drive the load.
The selection must take into account load torque, acceleration torque, friction torque, etc., and a safety factor.

2. Stepping motor drive voltage and current

It is necessary to select a motor that is compatible with the power supply (voltage and current) that will be used to drive it.
Consistency with the control circuit and driver specifications must also be checked.

3. Stepping motor step angle

必要な位置決め精度に応じたステップ角度を選定します。より細かいステップ角度を選ぶことで高精度な制御が可能です。

4. Stepping motor size (external dimensions)

Select an appropriate size taking into consideration installation space and mechanical constraints. Refer to dimensional standards such as NEMA standards.
*NEMA standard: Standards for electrical products established by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA).
SANYO DENKI CO., LTD. also offers small 14mm square stepping motors and thin stepping motors that can be installed in tight spaces.

5. Stepping motor holding torque

Holding torque is important when a stepper motor needs to support a load while energized and stopped.
It is necessary to select a motor that satisfies the required holding torque.

6. Environmental conditions for stepping motors

Select a stepping motor that is compatible with the ambient temperature and humidity ranges required for the environment in which it will be used.
Also, if dustproofing or waterproofing is required, select a stepping motor that complies with IP standards.
SANYO DENKI CO., LTD. offers stepping motors with a protection rating of IP65, which means they can be used in equipment exposed to water, such as food-related industrial machinery (shaft and cable ends excluded).

7. Cost

We evaluate not only the cost of the stepping motor itself, but also the cost of the driver and the entire control system. It is important to consider the balance between cost and performance.

8. Stepping motor customizability

If you need to customize the product to meet your specific requirements or environment, you need to choose a manufacturer that can accommodate your needs flexibly. Also, make sure the customized parts are covered by the warranty.
SANYO DENKI CO., LTD. offers a wide range of customization options, including vacuum compatibility, shaft processing, installation of reducers, brakes, and encoders, and installation of dampers.

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3. Narrow down the cooled stepping motors based on your requirements

Once you understand the key points, you can narrow down your search for stepping motors based on your criteria on SANYO DENKI CO., LTD. 's product site.

4. Examples of issues and solutions for stepping motors

1. Examples of measures to avoid loss of synchronization

It is necessary to ensure sufficient torque margin and inertia ratio. Stepping motors will become inoperable (loosen) if overloaded, so we recommend that you ensure a torque margin of about 1.4 to 2 times (guideline).

2. 振動・騒音を改善するための対処例

Microstep drive allows for smooth rotation at low speeds.

3. 高速回転でのトルク低下を改善するための対処例

・Switch to a motor with a larger motor winding current (rated current)
・If it is a DC power type, increase the power supply voltage, or switch to an AC power type.
· Change the motor windings (unwind the windings) to increase torque at high speeds.
There are other methods such as:

5.目的別:ステッピングモータの選定例

SANYO DENKI CO., LTD. supports your business with a diverse lineup of stepping motors and various customizations to meet your needs.

Release date:

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