Whether you’re using a traditional model or a gearmotor with encoder, using it the right way will help extend its life and give you better results.
The next time you work with a gearmotor, keep the following in mind:
1. Determine the required torque. When working with a gearmotor, including a reversible gearmotor, it’s important to consider the running and starting torque separately because the gearing and starting characteristics can differ. When determining the torque, the most important factors include the amount of work the gearmotor can do and its speed.
2. Consider an AC motor for optimal performance. When you use a gearmotor with brake, a fully integrated gearmotor’s low-inertia rotor matches the characteristics of the gear unit and provides controlled load deceleration. An AC motor also makes point-to-point positioning applications and indexing in a gearmotor with encoder possible.
3. Know the motor type. When you know the motor type you’re using, you may be able to increase its efficiency by replacing the PSC motor with a PMDC motor.
4. Use the right size. Under- or over-sizing a gearmotor can lead to inefficiencies and permanent motor failure. By determining the correct service factor needs for a gearmotor, you can reduce stress on the machinery and prolong its life.
5. Know the common causes of gearmotor failure. These causes can include excessive overhung loading, excessive acceleration or deceleration, inappropriate environments, thermal cycling, neglecting to use the appropriate lubricants and an unstable motor mount.
