September 21, 2023

Decoding Motors: Differences Between Servo and DC Motors 

Servo Motors and DC motors are highly used machinery assets for different applications within the manufacturing industry. The distinctive difference between the two types of motors is control, precision, and application. 

Servo Motors are commonly used in CNC machines, robotics, and industrial automation. Strong precision makes a servo the go to motor for automation. Torque control is a key benefit, providing control at high and low speed, for machining applications cutting through tough materials or applying significant force during the operation. 

DC Motors are commonly used in Electric Vehicles, HVAC systems and Conveyor systems. The build of the motor is simple, which contributes to the reliability of the motor, ease of maintenance and durability. Providing high-efficiency levels, a DC motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy with minimal loss. This is a benefit for businesses to reduce operating costs, also helping to become sustainable and reducing environmental impact as a business by a reduction in energy usage. This is crucial to maintain ISO 14001 standards, Environmental Management System regulations.   

Key differences between a Servo Motor and a DC Motor 

Servo and DC motors have different characteristics, as they are each suitable for different applications within the industry. The key differences are:   

Control Mechanism:  

Servo motors are designed for precision and positioning when running. Built with a feedback system, such as an encoder, to provide information on speed, direction and position when machining. This type of motor is controlled using a closed-loop control system.  

DC Motors are controlled by a signal that determines speed and direction, but not position, using an open-loop control system. 

Torque Output (Torque is the force within a motor): 

Servo’s higher torque capability allows them to control heavier loads to high precision.  

DC motors have varying torque depending on the specific type of motors, brushed or brushless. This type of motor cannot guarantee the same torque output as a Servo.  

Speed Control:  

Servos have the capability to consistently maintain a set speed as a result of the closed-loop system, and can quickly change their speed to the requirement.  

A DC motor can control the speed, however the accuracy can be affected if changes to the speed are continually altered. A DC motor will run better when set at one speed.  

Choosing your Motor 

It is crucial to investigate the specifications of the application in order to determine the appropriate motor for machining purposes. This will enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of your equipment. Neutronic suggests researching the following before investing in a Servo or DC Motor: 

Precision Requirements – If you require machining at high precision, a servo motor will meet this demand and offer accurate speed and precision when machining. A DC motor is suitable when precision control is not as critical, and simplicity and cost are key focuses.  

Compatibility Requirements – Consider the implementation of the equipment into existing systems, such as communication, compatibility with controllers and programming tools.  

Cost Consideration – DC motors are considered to be more cost-effective than Servo’s, due to their build simplicity. However, consider the application requirements to make sure the investment meets the performance requirements to produce a successful ROI on the asset investment.  

Investing in a Motor? 

Our account managers at Neutronic can offer outstanding advice, if you are unsure about which motor is best suited to your manufacturing needs. Neutronic can source motors from a range of major manufacturers such as SEW-Eurodrive, WEG and ABB with reduced lead times and outstanding prices.  

Contact our team on 0845 180 0483 to discuss this further, or take a look at our supply page! 

Industry Application  

As discussed throughout the blog, different industries will require different motors to meet the manufacturing requirements. An example of an industry application is a Servo Motor being used within a CNC machine.  

A CNC machine requires high precision, this is crucial within CNC machining as they machine complex part with a high-quality surface finish. Servos offer control of speed and acceleration making it easy to adjust the speed of machining throughout the programme.  

The closed-loop control used within the Servo is what contributes to the accurate positioning when machining, which is why improved performance is offered, in comparison to a DC motor for this specific industry application.  

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Megan Birch0 commentDC Motor Repairs, Electro-Mechanical Repairs, Servo Motors
June 19, 2023

Choosing Your Electric Motor Repair Partner

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Not all motor repair facilities are equal, in fact the difference between a motor repair company and a quality motor repair provider could mean a huge difference for the longevity and efficiency of your repaired motor.

Unfortunately, the industry has no legislation to enforce the quality of the repairs that are carried out, so it falls to the person in need of the repair to do their due diligence, and ensure that they are procuring a high level of quality when choosing a repairer.

Repairers vary from independent 1 man operations working from tiny premises, to multinational businesses operating in various places around the globe. So when choosing your repairer, does big mean better? And does being affiliated with a trade body such as the AEMT guarantee a high standard of repair? The answer is no to both of those questions.

Motor being repaired in the Neutronic Technologies Workshop

When choosing your repairer, you need to ensure they have the appropriate equipment to carry out the repair properly and if the repairer has multiple sites. Make sure they have the equipment needed at the branch you are using. You would be amazed at how many companies I have come across over the years who are poorly equipped or even lack basic essential repair equipment.

What to ask your Electric Motor repairer to demonstrate?

Surge Tester:- Without a surge tester the repairer has no real way of performing electrical tests on the stator. A multi-meter and megger test is simply not capable of testing electric motors sufficiently. In our repair shop we use the Electrom Instruments iTIG III Winding analyser.

Pyrolysis Oven:- One of the major processes of rewinding a motor is to remove the old windings, varnish and insulation. It’s not an easy process unless you have one of these Ovens which you must not mistake for a curing oven, they are very different. It’s surprising how many rewind shops don’t have this equipment but without it you cannot guarantee the ongoing efficiency of the motor after the repair.

Dynamic Balancing:- Another large and expensive piece of repair equipment that is essential to a high quality repair. The balancing machine ensures the rotor assembly is finely tuned and balanced for all speeds of rotation. Remember a slight imbalance on a rotor can quickly degrade bearing life and cause damage to other areas of the machine the motor is connected to.

There are lots of other pieces of equipment that we use in the repair process such as sand blasters, wash tanks, curing ovens, rotor removal equipment, bearing heaters, cranes, mechanical measurement devices and countless other tools, but in my opinion the 3 listed above are by far the most important for any rewind shop to effect a quality and reliable repair.

Book in your Repair with Neutronic Technologies:

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    admin0 commentElectric Motors, Electro-Mechanical Repairs, Equipment