Rotary Tattoo Machine

A European tattoo device manufacturer wanted to improve the capabilities and ergonomics of their existing machine. Tattoo artists have embraced rotary tattoo machines in their parlors due to the ease of set up and quiet operation in comparison to traditional coil machines. The rotary machine uses a small DC motor to drive the needles and to lighten the device and minimize artist strain, which allows longer tattoo application times for intricate designs.

Portescap was approached to provide a DC motor with improved power and torque capabilities over the customer’s existing design. The Portescap prototype team developed a proof-of-concept motor to evaluate and optimize the machine’s performance. To do so, Portescap subsequently modified the design to use the Athlonix™ 16DCT brush DC motor. The design modifications also included stronger Neodymium magnets for increased power and a customized shaft to meet customer mounting requirements.

The Portescap solution provided higher torque and operating power in a compact package that translated to improved ergonomics and lighter weight device.

Download a PDF of this article