What is torque motor?
Hello esteemed colleagues,
(We have tried to examine the widely misunderstood concepts of torque and "torque motors" below.)
There is generally no specific type of motor known as a "torque motor." However, the torque-producing capacity of motors is often chosen based on the requirements of the application. For example, high-torque motors are selected for applications that have high torque needs.
Therefore, terms like "high-torque motor" or "low-torque motor" are used to specify if a motor is suitable for a particular application. But these labels do not change the basic structure or operational principle of the motor; they only facilitate a more application-specific selection.
For instance, electric cars typically require high torque. Therefore, motors capable of generating high torque are selected for such applications. Nonetheless, these motors are essentially variations of AC or DC motors, and their operating principles remain the same.
Bottom line: There is no such thing as a "torque motor" type. Motors, by their nature, produce some amount of torque. The term "torque motor" is a kind of urban myth and generally refers to motors (either AC or DC) that perform well at low speeds. You may refer to our article on "What is torque control?" for more details on this topic.
Electric torque motors are electric motors that produce the rotational force (torque) necessary to move a specific load. They are commonly used in industrial applications, transportation, automation systems, and many other areas. While torque motors come in many different types and sizes, they fundamentally serve the same purpose: converting electrical energy into mechanical energy.
Operating Principles:
Electric motors utilize the interaction between a magnetic field and an electric current. They mainly consist of two core components: a stator (stationary part) and a rotor (rotating part). Generally, the stator produces a magnetic field, while the rotor rotates within that field. This rotation is transferred to mechanical systems, generating a torque that can perform work or create motion.
Types:
AC Motors (Alternating Current): These motors use alternating current and can be squirrel-cage, phase-shifted, or magnetically excited types. (more >)
DC Motors (Direct Current): These motors use direct current and can be brush-type or brushless (BLDC). (more >)
Servo Motors: Used in applications requiring high control precision. Typically operate in conjunction with a control device. (more >)
Stepper Motors: These motors provide very precise position control and are commonly used in 3D printers, CNC machines, etc. (more >)
Linear Motors: These motors produce linear motion instead of rotary motion. (more >)
Key Parameters:
Torque: Maximum rotational force the motor can produce.
Speed: Maximum rotation speed of the motor, usually measured in revolutions per minute (rpm).
Efficiency: The proportion of electrical energy converted into mechanical energy.
Power: The energy production of the motor per unit time, generally expressed in Watts.
"Torque and motors that produce torque are present in every aspect of our lives, whether in electrical or mechanical forms. We've tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about the torque capacities of electric motors below.
- What is the difference between torque and power?
- What are the units of torque?
- Why is torque important when selecting a motor?
- What advantages does a high-torque motor provide?
- What disadvantages does a low-torque motor bring?
- How is a balance between torque and speed achieved?
- What is the relationship between torque and horsepower in cars?
- Why do electric vehicles generally produce high torque?
- How can torque be increased?
- What is the effect of torque on mechanical systems?
- What is the relationship between torque and rotational speed?
- How are motors categorized based on their torque-producing capacity?
- What types of motors produce high torque?
- How is torque control achieved?
- What is a torque multiplier and how is it used?
- What problems can sudden torque increases cause?
- Is there a difference in torque between stepper motors and servo motors?
- What is the starting torque?
-
Keep in mind, these questions can only quench general curiosities about electrically-powered motors and drive systems. Each person or student will have their own specific questions depending on their situation or application. Our answers are not definitive; they are merely a guide. Feel free to share our article, citing it as a source. If you have questions, don't hesitate to reach out to us!" 06.2019 -