Humanoid robots, designed to operate in close interaction with humans, rely heavily on smooth and controlled joint and limb motion. This makes the selection of the motors that power the axes of motion critical. Alongside high torque density and responsiveness, efficiency to enable long battery life is key, and reliability is also important. Achieving freedom of movement requires integrating numerous axes of motion, which is best accomplished by working closely with an expert in this field.

ABB is opening its NEMA Motors Division world headquarters in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to the local community on Thursday, October 3, in celebration of Manufacturing Day (MFG Day), officially observed on Friday, October 4. This open house event is intended to educate and inspire students, parents, educators and community leaders about the future of manufacturing careers. ABB plans to engage with attendees through facility tours, demonstrating the industry’s critical role in driving innovation and highlighting diverse, sustainable career paths.

Closed Loop control systems can handle a wide range of motions with a wide range of loads if the control system and mechanics are properly designed for the task. A couple of the more difficult combinations to design for are high inertial mismatches and backlash with hard gearing. The question is not just how to make the system stable, but rather how to also get the desired performance.

The latest innovation by Parvalux is their ability to provide prototype motors at a rapid pace. The company has designed and manufactured a series of modular components that are easily mixed and matched so that users get a paired system from one manufacturer rather than piecing together components such as motors, gearheads, brakes, and encoders from various manufacturers. The ability to create a near optimal motor drive for your application just became faster and easier. In a three-step selection process, designers can purchase a motor that is built to order using the company’s online configurator. 

M.G.M. Electric IEC standard motors and brake motors are manufactured using state-of-the-art, high-quality processes and are rated for general-purpose and inverter duty. IEC motors provide the same power output as NEMA motors but have a smaller footprint and feature a lightweight aluminum construction. 

Our next legacy entry is maxon, a global leading provider of electric drive systems. The company provides single-source DC and BLDC motors, gearheads, sensors, control electronics, mechatronic drive systems and more-from individual prototypes to large-scale production. The history of maxon begins with Interelectric AG in Frankfurt.

Ventilators provide critical airflow to patients whose natural breathing is insufficient to sustain life. They are also utilized as a preventative measure to counteract the imminent failure of other bodily functions or ineffective gas exchange in the lungs. The widespread use of mechanical ventilation has significantly enhanced the survival rates of patients undergoing surgeries, experiencing lung issues due to accidents, or suffering from acute and chronic pulmonary ailments. A critical aspect of the effective functioning of ventilators is the micro motion system, which powers the ventilation system. This article will focus on the use and benefits of brushless DC micro motors in ventilators.

The Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA) honored John S. Allen, managing director, Sheppard Engineering Limited, with the 2024 EASA Exceptional Achievement Service Award.

The development of the new cast-iron totally enclosed fan cooled (TEFC) severe duty motor marks the second phase of ABB’s SP4 technology launch. This model is uniquely designed for applications in hazardous environments with certifications for Division 2 and Class I Groups A, B, C, D, as well as Class II Groups F, and G, making it suitable for areas with explosive gases and combustible dust. The model also features an IP55 rating, ensuring protection against dust and water spray, making it reliable for harsh and dirty conditions. ABB previously introduced two different models with SP4 technology: rolled steel open drip proof and totally enclosed fan cooled motors.

Forty-five percent of the world’s electricity is used to power electric motors in buildings and industrial applications. By 2030, this cost is projected to reach $900 billion annually. Lowering CO₂ emissions and increasing energy efficiency is critical for our planet, but also for ensuring stable and productive industry operations, lowering operating costs and total costs of ownership. To help motor operators better understand the financial and environmental benefits of upgrading current and end-of-life industrial electric motors, ABB has developed its NEMA motors Energy Savings Calculator.