The trade show circuit has offered a wealth of e-mobility and motor technologies recently. From IMTS and Pack Expo to MINExpo and CES 2025, there are plenty of disruptors in the motor segment for power transmission components. One area—in particular—is the aerospace industry where vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) rotorcrafts continue to redefine aerial transport, variable frequency drives (VFDs) support aircraft performance, stepper motors provide passenger comfort and software enables engineers to optimize electric motor design.
If you haven’t been paying attention lately, you might think that electric motors are an old, stodgy technology. After all, most of the real inventions occurred way back in the nineteenth century, with contributions from historical geniuses like Faraday and Tesla. We’ve been using DC motors and AC induction motors since the late 19th century. In many cases the basic design has remained unchanged.
It’s an exciting time in the electric motor industry. In the past two years more truly innovative new technology development has occurred than in the previous two decades. We can thank the e-mobility movement for that. It’s not just cars, trucks, bikes and buses, but just about everything else that moves on wheels as well as on water and in the sky.
Applied Motion Products introduces the AW Stepper Motors, featuring an IP65-rated design that ensures reliable operation in harsh environments. Engineered for a high level of protection, these motors effectively shield internal components from external contaminants such as dust, dirt, moisture, and grease.
Selecting a drive, whether for a new application or to replace an existing one, doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience. The key to success lies in asking a logical sequence of thoughtful questions.
ABB launched the Baldor-Reliance Food Safe SP5+ motor, the world’s first IP69 ultra-premium efficient motor, at the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) on January 28. This advanced technology sets a new benchmark for energy efficiency, hygiene and durability in food and beverage production environments.
Tolomatic Inc. introduces its online Drive Integration Tool that streamlines the selection and commissioning process to seamlessly match a drive system to a servo linear actuator.
Mechatronic drive systems are intricate by nature. Tailoring solutions to meet the specific needs of our customers, SDP/SI motion control specialists integrate carefully selected components—such as DC motors, BLDC motors, stepper motors, gearheads, controllers, sensors, and housings—into a cohesive, high-performance drive system. Let’s collaborate!
Kollmorgen has updated its SafeMotion Monitor (SMM) firmware: SMM2.0. This upgrade allows OEMs to leverage SMM functional safety features with more encoder and motor types to support a wider range of applications such as material forming, multi-axis measurement equipment, food processing and food packaging.
The ASI8100 stepper motor with built-in drive from Beckhoff adds another space-saving tool to the company’s broad range of compact drive technology products (up to 48 V DC). The ASI8100 series combines a stepper motor, stepper motor output stage, and fieldbus connection in a fully integrated design. These EtherCAT devices mount directly on the machine without a control cabinet or upstream I/O, allowing for highly compact, control cabinet-free machines.
Closed-loop control systems can handle a wide range of motions with a wide range of loads if the control system and the mechanics of the system 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 also how to get the desired performance.
AutomationDirect has added more ACCU-Torq motors from Nidec U.S. Motors. The ACCU-Torq motors are high-performance inverter duty motors and are an excellent cost-effective solution for applications that require 100 percent torque down to zero speed. They are available in 230/460 VAC and are now offered in sizes up to 20 hp at 1,800 rpm and from ¼ to 10 hp at 1,200 rpm.
ABB has completed the acquisition of Aurora Motors. The transaction was originally announced on November 4, 2024, and financial terms were not disclosed. Aurora Motors is a $4 million U.S. vertical pump motors provider, with engineering and operations in Shanghai, China, and a corporate office and distribution center in Hayward, California.
From electric motors and linear actuators to robots and gearboxes, the range of equipment and machinery used to create automation in industrial applications is diverse. Each has its own set of sealing requirements and understanding these critical components requires many years of experience. In this article David Kaley, Trelleborg’s global segment manager for industrial automation, shares his insights on sealing needs for electric motors. Standard, elastomer-based radial shaft seals as well as high-performing PTFE-based seals are discussed.
A motion controller with even more possibilities: With the new MC 3602 B and MC 3606 B motion controllers, the selection and commissioning of drive systems is now even simpler. With the compact MC 3602/06 B, DC-motors, brushless DC-motors and linear motors can be operated with the typical position encoders as servo drive in accordance with CiA 402. Also new is the support of stepper motors with encoder as servo or without encoder in open-loop operation. The products "speak" EtherCAT, CANopen, RS232 and USB.
WEG supplied medium voltage synchronous motors to CEDAE at the Lameirão Pumping Station in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. These motors will play a crucial role by pumping water to a significant part of the city, ensuring reliability and continuity for the state’s population.
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.
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.
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.
Applied Motion Products introduces the CPBD-A-C remote control module that connects to the back of the CSM34 Conveyor Smart Motor and can be mounted where conveyor operators can easily access it.
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.
The Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA) honored John S. Allen, managing director, Sheppard Engineering Limited, with the 2024 EASA Exceptional Achievement Service Award.
Since its introduction in 2019, Yaskawa’s GA800 variable speed drive has proven itself as the ultimate combination of power, ease of use, flexibility, and performance.
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.
The company Norelem, a global manufacturer and supplier of standard components for mechanical engineering and industrial applications, is set to open a new facility in the United States. This expansion represents a significant step in Norelem's international growth strategy and its commitment to better serving its customers in the United States.
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.
The ABB Baldor-Reliance EC Titanium motor has been recognized with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2024 ENERGY STAR Emerging Technology Award. This annual award recognizes products that meet stringent performance criteria in specific categories. By highlighting innovative solutions with the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the award promotes promising technologies that may not yet fully align with the ENERGY STAR certification requirements or may be relatively more complex to properly install and operate.
Nidec’s U.S. Motors division recently promoted two long-time staffers to senior roles. Cory Kniepp is now director, strategic planning and marketing operations, and Patrick Hogg is senior marketing director, industrial OEMs and distribution. The U.S. Motors brand offers electric motors featuring advanced technology, from variable speed electronically commutated motors to NEMA Premium efficient motors.
Visit ABB at the 2024 EASA Convention from June 23-27, at Caesars Forum and Harrah's Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. Media is invited to meet with ABB experts to learn about selecting innovative motor solutions essential for various applications and processes and discover new products, services, and digital solutions. ABB will unveil the ABB RXT series at 2:45 p.m. on Monday, June 24, at the ABB Booth 509, along with the new ABB NEMA Motors DP200 Crush+ and Baldor-Reliance FoodSafe SP5+.
Bodine Electric Company introduces 12 new brushless DC hollow shaft gearmotors with hypoid gearing. These type 42B-25H2 and 42B-30H3 geared motors combine a new brushless DC, 130 VDC motor with two hypoid gearheads.
A "compact automation" is a mechatronic system that performs a whole series of consecutive production steps autonomously. "Compact" refers to the small dimensions, in the millimeter and centimeter range, of the products to be processed. Designing and constructing such systems is one of the core activities of the Austrian machine manufacturer STIWA. Its modular system LTM-CI has been optimized for small parts assembly. Linear and rotating micromotors from Faulhaber perform key tasks in these systems.
Akribis Systems is pleased to announce a new addition to its varied motion control product line: RDM-A Series rod motors for space-constrained applications requiring high motor forces and smooth linear motion.
The robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) system incorporates the first-ever articulating camera. MIRA and spaceMIRA gain its strength in a small size by placing maxon’s motors inside the arms of the minibot. This structure allows the device to tackle a complex multi-quadrant procedure like colon resection across a broad range of patient types. The rigid, non-snake-like arms with internally mounted motors deliver the required strength to perform the surgeries while enabling triangulation of the camera and instruments.
Motor operators in all industries are staying ahead of the curve in energy efficiency and environmental stewardship with ABB Baldor-Reliance SP4 motors. ABB’s SP4 technology meets the NEMA Super Premium efficiency level in a standard AC induction motor design operating across the line, independently of a variable speed drive.
Complementing the OES (Optimal Engineering Systems Inc.) growing line of single and multi-axis positioning stages is the Allegra Series of Stored Program Motion Control Systems Controllers. The Allegra Series of Controllers is available as a desktop (pictured) or 19-inch rack mount system.
The release of the maxon EPOS4 Micro 24/5 CAN positioning controller has realized the option of significantly minimizing the “real estate” traditionally occupied by motor controllers.
ABB has launched a new version its IE5 SynRM (synchronous reluctance motor) that combines the benefits of ultra-premium energy efficiency with highly effective liquid cooling. The new design sets a new benchmark for high power output and reliability in a compact footprint.
Applied Motion Products introduces the M5 Servo Series – where power, precision, and cost-efficiency converge. The M5 Servo Series is engineered for high machine performance, exceptional torque output, and precise control. This series is optimized for cost-efficiency, ensuring peak capabilities without compromising performance.
WorldWide Electric Corporation has announced the acquisition of North American Electric, Inc. Both companies embrace customer-centricity as a substantial competitive advantage — each provides high-touch, accessible sales support and application expertise, in-stock inventory, excellent distribution channels, and a broad offering of industrial products.
Portescap has announced that its facility in Mumbai, India has attained AS9100 certification. Internationally recognized as the defining standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS) in the aerospace industry, AS9100 outlines a set of rigorous requirements that aerospace suppliers must meet to ensure the quality and safety of their products and services.
AutomationDirect recently added the EQP Global SD severe duty motors from Toshiba. The Toshiba EQP SD series motors are designed to withstand the most severe conditions. Since most AC motor failures are a result of failed bearings, these inverter-duty motors feature oversized 300-series bearings for maximum motor longevity.
WEG recently announced, through its indirect subsidiaries abroad, the acquisition of the industrial electric motors and generators business of Regal Rexnord Corporation, a global manufacturer of electromechanical equipment. The acquisition value is $400.0 million, subject to common price adjustments for this type of transaction.
The MELSERVO-J5 portfolio of servomotors and amplifiers has been expanded to include two new servo types, additional “high-speed” motor models, and a number of new features and functions for enhanced capabilities and unparalleled performance compared to previous generations.
ABB is set to feature high-efficiency motor solutions during WEFTEC in Chicago, Illinois, USA, on October 2-4. Attendees are invited to visit Booth 2348 to learn from ABB experts about the company’s innovative products and services and the essential solutions they provide for water management and wastewater treatment. ABB’s Global Segment Manager Todd Huston and Global Product Marketing Manager Stefanie Casimir welcome visitors at the booth to discuss these products and their benefits to customers.
ABB will be featuring its high-efficiency NEMA motors solutions at Turbomachinery & Pump Symposia on September 25 – 28 in Houston. Attendees are invited to visit Booth #2835 to learn from experts how ABB’s innovative products and services provide essential solutions for energy saving, facility comfort, productivity and more. ABB’s Global Segment Manager Todd Huston and Account Manager Kirk Franz will be available at the booth to discuss the products and the product benefits.
ZF has developed an electric motor which does not require magnets. In contrast to the magnet-free concepts of so-called separately excited synchronous motors (SESM) already available today, ZF’s I2SM (In-Rotor Inductive-Excited Synchronous Motor) transmits the energy for the magnetic field via an inductive exciter inside the rotor shaft. This makes the motor uniquely compact with maximum power and torque density.
In everyday life and in the technical fields we often discover that certain decisions are based on “scientific data” when, in fact, they are often founded on historic conclusions that have not been challenged or re-evaluated in a long time. One such common myth is that for a stable and well-tuned drive you should match the motor’s inertia to the load inertia, which is typically done using a gearbox. Two factors lead to that conclusion: a. there is an optimization formula using the time constant of the motor and the load torque that shows that the best acceleration will be achieved if the reflected load inertia matches the rotor inertia; and b. a PID controller, which was commonly used when electric servos entered the marketplace, tend to perform best and appear to be most stable when the inertia are close or matched.
Kollmorgen recently announced the launch of Kollmorgen Express Delivery. This new designation identifies highly popular motion products — including some of the most requested configurations and options — that Kollmorgen is ready to deliver within an accelerated timeframe. Machine builders have always benefited from Kollmorgen’s wide range of standard product configurations, features and options. This broad portfolio serves the unique needs of many diverse industries and applications but can create challenges for rapid delivery, especially when material supplies are constrained.
The 2023 EASA Convention, June 25-27, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, MD. EASA (https://easa.com/convention) supports companies involved in the service and sale of electric motors, pumps, drives, controls, gearboxes and other rotating machinery. Highlights include synchronous motors, machine reliability, leadership, sustainability, EASA's 90th birthday bash, motor maintenance, pump repair, supply chain issues and more.
Visitors to EASA in June will get a chance to see some of the highest efficiency electric motors available on the market when they stop by the Nidec Motor Corporation Booth (#613). Nidec’s “Super Premium” and above variable frequency drive (VFD) motors and all-in-one, integrated motors and controls are leading the industry with efficiency ratings of IE 4 and IE 5 for remarkable energy savings compared to traditional single speed motors.
SEW-Eurodrive is expanding its comprehensive portfolio to include new motors for purely inverter operation. The synchronous motors of the DR2C.. series satisfy the highest standard-based efficiency class IE5 for adjustable-speed electric motors. This makes them yet another sustainable and energy-saving motor variant.
ABB recently announced it has completed its acquisition of the Siemens low voltage NEMA motor business. The transaction was originally announced August 11, 2022, and financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The business employs around 600 people and generated revenues of approximately $63 million in 2021.
MassRobotics and maxon announce a partnership to support the robotics innovation ecosystem through collaboration and exploration of motion control technologies around automation and manufacturing-related applications. With maxon’s extensive expertise and knowledge of electric drives, this partnership will support and advance the latest innovations and technologies in motion control with automation-focused companies in the robotics sector.
Portescap announces the release of the 45ECF brushless DC flat slotted motor, the latest addition to join our flat motor portfolio. The 45ECF features a performance optimized design that utilizes an outer rotor configuration with an overall diameter of 43.2 mm and a body length of only 22.5 mm. The motor features hall sensors to easily control speed and torque and can be provided sensorless based on application requirements. Additionally, the motor can be used in combination with existing gearbox designs to provide high output torque at required operational speeds.
It’s called the d2, a small, lightweight, nanoliter microplate dispenser—say that five times fast— used in lab automation to handle a variety of liquids. Created by UK Robotics, the liquid handler was launched in 2022 to shakeup the possibilities of moving liquids around the lab on a budget.
Unlike HVAC applications, servomotors are not normally operated at the same speed or torque for extended periods, thus the overall efficiency of a servomotor is not easily given a single numeric value. The efficiency varies greatly with the application, and thus different applications favor different types of servomotors.
Orbex Group, a U.S.-based supplier of slip rings and electric motors, has introduced two new custom products to its offering of precision motion solutions. These custom flat brushless DC (BLDC) motors provide smooth motion, high precision and excellent power density, as well as an integral gear reducer in a compact package.
Regal Rexnord Corporation will feature its mobile, scalable, approachable and energy-efficient end-of-the-line sortation system, ModSort, at LogiMat 2023, Booth 1A41 in Hall 1. The show takes place at the Stuttgart Trade Fair Center (Stuttgart, Germany) from April 25-27.
Nidec Leroy-Somer has signed an agreement with Airbus to develop an electric motor for its hydrogen-powered fuel cell engine prototype, as part of Airbus’ ambition to bring the first zero-emission commercial aircraft to market by 2035. The long-standing expertise and extensive know-how of the French electric motor manufacturer, who already provides proven advanced technologies to many demanding industries, such as Navy, Nuclear, Railway, Automotive and Robotics is now collaborating on Aviation decarbonization.
The R-09-150 CCWM Series of Counterclockwise, Forward Shaft Extension Rotary Solenoids from Magnetic Sensor Systems (MSS), available in OEM quantities, features 18 different winding configurations allowing the user to match torque and duty cycle requirements to an application. These compact 38.1 mm (1.50 in.) diameter solenoids are just 22.098 (22.1) mm (0.87 in.) long and have two M4X0.7 threaded studs (8-32 studs optional) 7.366 (7.4) mm (0.29 in.) long on a 22.225 (22.2) mm (0.875 in.) bolt circle. The shaft has 40 degrees of counterclockwise rotation, extending (13.0) mm (0.51 in.). The shaft end is serrated for a better grip of the attached load.
The Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA) announces its Spring 2023 training seminar schedule. Offered in various locations around the United States, EASA's industry-specific training pools more than 100 years of rotating equipment knowledge from EASA's technical support staff. Participants have an opportunity to interact face-to-face with the presenters, as well as each other.
Heidenhain will host a worldwide digital event for automation, running November 28 - December 16 with opportunities to join online with appointments available for North Americans over four days (December 5-8).
Danfoss Power Solutions has appointed Ines E. Sira as the new president of its Fluid Conveyance division, effective immediately. Based at the company’s campus in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, Sira will be a key member of the Power Solutions leadership team and will report directly to Eric Alström, president of Danfoss Power Solutions.
The top three suppliers of low voltage AC motors made waves in the motor and drives space with a string of acquisition announcements in August. First, WEG announced its acquisition of Gefran’s motion control business. Then, on August 11th, ABB announced its acquisition of Siemens’ NEMA motor business. Both developments are significant within the motor and drives market and serve to highlight portions of each company’s industrial automation strategy. In this insight, we’ll unpack both of these acquisitions and explain their implications on the broader motor and drives markets.
NUM has launched a series of brushless linear servomotors designed specifically for continuous duty cycle applications in machine tools.
Portescap is pleased to announce the release of the 20ECF brushless slotted flat motor, which is the latest motor to join the flat motor platform. The 20ECF is characterized by a flat architecture, as well as a compact package size that is a hallmark of Portescap’s existing brushless motor portfolio.
Bosch Rexroth is now offering linear modules for small handling applications with its new SHB and SHL models. These modules are suitable for more than factory automation; they are designed for lighter load applications, such as in medical labs, universities and vision systems. With simple USB to laptop connectivity, monitoring and controlling are easy to achieve.
The new decentralized inverter series DGM Modular from Bonfiglioli is dedicated for asynchronous and synchronous reluctance motor control. Thanks to its various features and options our high-level performance solution is perfect for packaging, logistics, material handling, food and beverage and pumps sectors. All sizes of the DGM are characterized by high performance and safety features.
The Figaro series is a motion control system introduced to complement Optimal Engineering Systems’ growing line of single and multi-axis positioning stages. The Figaro series is an easy-to-use, plug-and-play, cost effective solution motion controller.
With the introduction of the PressFit rotary encoders from Heidenhain, small-motor manufacturers finally have a better solution for incorporating automated mounting for feedback devices. This new ExI 11xx encoder series features a unique compact design that allows fast and simple mounting by press-fitting into a motor housing while still allowing surrounding space for cables and seals.
The drive system manufacturer Heinzmann has introduced a new wheel hub motor with integrated transmission, which was developed in close collaboration with Framo Morat. The compact, high-performance drive provides ensures efficient operation in automated guided vehicles (AGV) and autonomous mobile robots (AMR).
Piezo Motion, a Brain Scientific company, and Micro Technology Group (MTG) recently announced a partnership. Piezo Motion is a developer and manufacturer of automation technology. MTG, headquartered in Mansfield, Massachusetts, is a business development company providing technical marketing and sales services for leading manufacturers.
Kollmorgen has announced the new TBM2G series of frameless servomotors, introducing features that simplify the design of collaborative, surgical, aerospace and defense and other robots while delivering optimal performance in a lighter, more compact package. These new motors will complement Kollmorgen’s existing TBM and KBM series of frameless motors.
The mobile machine market encompasses equipment supporting the movement of materials and components. This includes agricultural machinery, construction vehicles, municipal machinery, etc. These non-road mobile vehicles—tractors, cranes, forklifts and material handling equipment—often require personalized solutions focused on machine safety, automation and electrification.
Manufacturers today are merely scratching the surface when designing electric drive equipment for these challenging environmental applications.
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