How to Optimize Your Product or Device Output

Early engagement with an Application Engineers (AE) can be a valuable first step when working on your application design and looking for the optimal motion solution. Our AEs will gather valuable information during the motor selection process, to ensure that they use the right motor for the allotted space and application.  After a thorough analysis and discussion, they can provide speed/torque curves for various motor options. If they know the duty cycle, they can help to determine whether or not to use a smaller motor in a temporary overdrive application.

A typical discussion with an AE to understand the application of the motor begins with the following questions:

• • Once DC electric is known, then we should consider, what is the best technology available to achieve the requirements: DC Brushed, Brushless, or Can Stack Stepper?
  • No matter what DC technology is selected, is there some preliminary application information that will benefit in this process?

Two important parameters needed early in the process are the speed and torque for the motor under load. The available voltage to drive the motor will help determine the best coil winding. Portescap has various coil windings that offer multiple options to the designer.

Voltage is the parameter responsible for the overall speed, therefore determining the amount of voltage the power source can provide to the motor is vital. The current draw is the driving force behind the mechanical output that the motor delivers. Once we know the voltage and current specifications, AEs look at the power source available in the application. A constant power source is not as critical at this stage, but if the battery-driven is above the voltage and current provided, this can influence the selection.

Another application consideration is the duty cycle for the motor. Does the motor run continuously or in use will the motor run for “X” minutes with a rest period before performing the same function? By understanding the duty cycle, AEs may recommend a smaller motor for the application.

Other design considerations that can affect the selection are if the required speed/torque will need a geared motor and if speed/positioning is requested, and if so, perhaps an encoder will need to be added to the motor composite. Understanding if there are any axial and radial loads on the motor shaft can also affect the specifications for the motor.

We aim to help our designer’s realize the many parameters that can influence the motor selection process and, depending on the design phase, can become a challenge in finding a suitable solution. Portescap enjoys being a partner for finding optimal motor solutions. We have technologies that are available to provide the best option to meet demanding requirements. If we need to consult others for tuning the selection, we have the resources available to make a custom motor to drive your application. Looking for a more in-depth approach for determining the best technology? Call us at and ask to speak with an Applications Engineer or send a Contact Us Request Form. Also, be sure to visit our blog, “Selecting the Optimum Motor Technology for your Application” for further information on this topic.