Today, we can witness automation in every sector, and things are no different in the electromechanical field. Stepper motors are a reflection of these changes. Stepper motors rotate in steps in a controlled fashion, and the precise motion of the shaft takes place without the help of any feedback system. Let’s have a detailed look at the stepper motor and how it works.
What Is a Stepper Motor?
The stepper motor is a type of DC motor which converts the electrical pulse into the stepwise motion of the shaft. Unlike other types of DC electric motors, the stepper motor comes with a permanent magnet rotor which operates as soon as the stator gets energized. While the construction of the stator is just like a normal DC motor, the only difference is that the stepper motor comes with mechanical teeth.
Advantages of Stepper Motor
Lifespan
If we take a look at the construction of the stepper motor, we can notice the absence of friction in the moving parts except the bearing. This improves the lifespan of the stepper motor. However, just like any other machine, it also comes with specific longevity. The life of the motor depends on how one uses the motor. If the motor is used more frequently and rigorously, it can affect the lifespan of the motor.
Holding Torque
Holding torque is one of the significant parameters of a good stepper motor, and it needs to be on the higher side.
Holding torque is the ability of the motor to maintain the original position after the motor windings have been energized, even after a bigger force is applied to the motor’s shaft.
Holding torque is also known as stand-stall torque. Stepper motors also come with another ability, which is keeping the rotor in the same position when there is no current flowing through winding. This is known as the detent torque of the motor.
Maintenance Cost
The stepper motor doesn’t increase maintenance costs. This is because the stepper motor is a brushless motor. The stepper motor doesn’t require frequent changing of the brush. This is one of the main reasons for the low maintenance cost of the stepper motor.
Repeatability
One of the best features of the stepper motor is its repeatability. The motor comes with the ability to return to its position after a complete turn. This makes the stepper motor more accurate as well as suitable for several applications, especially in places where speed is a priority.
Low Speed Torque
Stepper motors produce high torque at a lower speed. This feature makes the motor appropriate where high torque is needed with more precision.
Less complex
For people who are looking for a motor that can control the object in an accurate way, the stepper motor is the best option. As mentioned above, the stepper motor works on an open-loop system. This means it doesn’t need an encoder, unlike other types of motors.
This feature makes the stepper motor less complex and cost-effective as compared to other motors.
Some Common Applications Of Stepper Motors
Gaming machines
Welding equipment
3D printing equipment
Small robotics
Textile machines
CNC milling machines
Printing presses
Medical imaging machinery
These are some of the common applications of the motor but a fraction of everything the motor is actually used for.
Stepper motors are highly reliable, and the absence of brushes reduces the chances of mechanical failure and optimizes the lifespan of the motor.