Selecting the Optimum Motion Technology for your Application Series: Torque

The next factor we will consider is the output torque requirement of the motion system.  What is the continuous torque requirement during operation?  Is there a peak torque for a limited time that needs to be considered?  Is the safety margin enough to compensate for the other factors in the application? 

Once you have the torque requirements defined in your application, the safety factor is the first consideration.  A typical safety factor is 50% to allow for friction build-up, wear, etc. over time.  Once you have your final torque value, the next step is to review that value versus the maximum continuous output torque for each motor technology which is found in the technology overview chart. Multiple technologies may be able to provide the output torque required so be sure to look at DC, Brushless DC and stepper to find the motor solutions. 

If you review the motor overview tables and the output torque value is greater than the maximum for the motor only, you will need to add a gearhead to increase the output torque capability of the motion system.  Gearheads have reduction ratios that represent the multiplication of output torque from the motor, times the efficiency of the gearbox.  This is ideal for applications that require a higher output torque value, but there is a corresponding reduction in output speed according to the ratio. 

Other factors impact the selection of the motor relative to the torque output which will be covered in the coming blog posts.  If you have any questions about the torque output capability of different technologies, contact the Portescap team for discussion.