How is a selection made between different types of servo motors (AC, DC, brushless)?

Hello friends,

The selection between different types of servo motors, including AC, DC, and brushless servo motors, depends on various factors related to the specific requirements of the application. Each type of servo motor has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice is influenced by considerations such as performance requirements, cost, operating environment, and control complexity. Here's a detailed analysis of how the selection is made between different types of servo motors:


Performance Requirements:

    Torque and Speed: The required torque and speed range of the application are critical factors. AC servo motors are generally preferred for high-speed applications, while DC servo motors are often chosen for applications requiring high torque at low speeds.
    Precision and Response: For applications requiring high precision and fast response times, brushless servo motors are typically the best choice due to their superior control characteristics.

 Cost Considerations:

    Initial Cost: DC servo motors are usually less expensive than AC or brushless servo motors, making them a cost-effective choice for simple or low-budget applications.
    Maintenance Cost: Brushless servo motors have lower maintenance costs compared to brushed DC servo motors, as they do not have brushes that wear out and need replacement.

 Operating Environment:

    Temperature: AC servo motors can operate at higher temperatures than DC servo motors, making them suitable for harsh industrial environments.
    Contamination: Brushless servo motors are less susceptible to contamination from dust or other particles, as they do not have brushes that can collect debris.

 Control Complexity:

    Control Electronics: Brushless servo motors require more complex control electronics, such as inverters or electronic commutators, which can increase the overall system complexity and cost.
    Feedback Requirements: The type of feedback required for precise control (e.g., encoders, resolvers) can also influence the choice of servo motor, as some motors may be more compatible with certain feedback devices.

 Size and Weight:

    Compactness: In applications where space is limited, the compact size of brushless servo motors can be an advantage.
    Weight: For applications where weight is a critical factor, such as in aerospace or robotics, the lighter weight of brushless servo motors may be preferred.

 Energy Efficiency:

    Efficiency: Brushless servo motors are generally more energy-efficient than brushed DC motors, making them a better choice for applications where energy consumption is a concern.

 Reliability and Lifespan:

    Durability: AC servo motors are known for their durability and long lifespan, making them suitable for continuous or heavy-duty applications.
    Maintenance: Brushless servo motors have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance than brushed DC motors, making them a more reliable choice for critical applications.

In summary, the selection between different types of servo motors (AC, DC, brushless) is based on a careful consideration of the application's performance requirements, cost constraints, operating environment, control complexity, size and weight considerations, energy efficiency, and reliability and lifespan needs. The chosen servo motor should align with the specific demands of the application to ensure optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.


Servo systems have become indispensable control devices for industrial machines. A wide variety of servo drives and motors of different brands and sizes are commonly used in many machines. Below, we have attempted to provide organized answers to the questions you have asked.



- What is a servo motor and how does it work?  
- What are the fundamental differences between servo motors and stepper motors?  
- What is a servo drive and how does it interact with a servo motor?  
- What are the common industrial applications of servo systems?  
- How do servo motors play a role in position control?  
- What are the basic components of a servo system?  
- How is speed and torque control achieved in servo motors?  
- What factors influence the precision and accuracy of servo systems?  
- How is a selection made between different types of servo motors (AC, DC, brushless)?  
- How are servo drives programmed and configured?  
- What measures should be taken for the maintenance and repair of servo motors?  
- How do feedback mechanisms (encoders, resolvers) work in servo systems?  
- What parameters should be considered when selecting a servo motor?  
- How can the energy efficiency and sustainability of servo systems be enhanced?  
- How is high dynamic performance achieved in servo motors?  
-
- What mathematical methods are used for dynamic modeling and control of servo motors?  
- How are field-oriented control (FOC) strategies implemented in brushless DC servo motors (BLDC)?  
- What are the applicability and advantages of adaptive control algorithms in servo systems?  
- What role do real-time operating systems (RTOS) play in high-performance servo systems?  
- What control techniques are used for synchronization and coordination in multi-axis servo systems?  
- What design approaches and materials are preferred for thermal management and heat dissipation in servo motors?  
- What is the importance of noise suppression and signal filtering techniques in servo systems?  
- How is energy regeneration (regenerative braking) integrated into advanced servo drive designs?  
- How is the kinematic and dynamic integration of servo motors achieved in robotic applications?  
- What advanced interpolation algorithms are used for precise positioning in servo motors? 

* These questions generally include the ones that may come to mind for many people regarding the "Servo systems" topic. Each user or student will have their specific questions depending on a particular situation or application. The answers are not binding and do not express absolute certainty. There is no objection to sharing our article above, citing it as a source. 03.2022 


Your shopping cart is empty!