Comparing 24 Volt DC Electric Motors: Brushed vs. Brushless Technologies

Table of Contents

The main difference between 24 volt dc electric motors with brushed and brushless technologies lies in how they deliver power. Brushed motors use physical brushes to transfer electricity, while brushless motors rely on electronic control. You often hear that brushless motors always outperform brushed ones. In reality, some iron-less core brushed motors can match or even exceed the efficiency of brushless designs at certain speeds. Brushless motors do require more complex electronics for operation, unlike brushed motors that run with a simple voltage supply. For most uses, brushless 24 volt dc electric motors offer better efficiency, longer life, and less maintenance. INEED provides both brushed and brushless solutions, known for quality and customization. Choosing the right 24 volt dc electric motors depends on your needs, but understanding these key differences helps you make a smarter decision.

Key Takeaways

  • Brushed motors are simpler and cheaper upfront, making them ideal for basic tasks and projects with limited budgets.

  • Brushless motors offer higher efficiency and longer lifespans, reducing maintenance needs and overall costs in the long run.

  • Choose brushed motors for applications requiring straightforward control and reliability, such as electric vehicles and home automation.

  • Opt for brushless motors in demanding environments like robotics and medical devices, where precision, quiet operation, and durability are crucial.

  • Understanding the specific needs of your project helps you select the right motor type, ensuring optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.

Brushed Motors: How 24 Volt DC Electric Motors Work

Key Components and Operation

You might wonder why brushed motors remain popular in so many industries. The answer lies in their straightforward design and reliable performance. When you use a 24 volt dc motor with brushed technology, you get a system that converts electrical energy into mechanical motion using a simple yet effective process. The main parts of a brush motor each play a specific role in making this happen. Here is a table that breaks down the key components and their functions:

Component

Function

Key Details

Armature (Rotor)

Carries current and interacts with the magnetic field to produce torque.

Made of copper wire to reduce resistance.

Rotates to deliver mechanical energy at the motor shaft.

Laminated iron core reduces eddy current losses.

Commutator

Reverses the current direction in the windings as the rotor turns.

Works closely with the brushes.

Ensures that the armature torque remains unidirectional.

Ensures continuous current flow during rotation.

Brushes

Transfer electric current from the external circuit to the commutator.

Subject to wear and require regular replacement.

The contact causes friction and sparking.

Field Magnets

Establishes a magnetic field that interacts with the armature.

The stronger the magnetic field, the higher the torque.

Shaft

Transmits rotational mechanical energy to the external load.

Often connected to gears, pulleys, or wheels.

Bearings

Support the rotating shaft, allowing it to spin freely.

Typically ball or sleeve bearings.

Motor Housing

Encloses and protects the internal components.

Made from aluminum or steel for strength and durability.

Windings

Carry the electrical current that creates magnetic fields for motion.

Wound in specific patterns to maximize efficiency.

Cooling System

Removes heat generated by current flow and friction.

May include fans, heat sinks, or air ducts.

When you supply power to a brushed motor, the brushes press against the commutator. This action allows current to flow into the armature windings. The interaction between the magnetic field from the field magnets and the current in the armature creates torque. The shaft then spins, delivering mechanical energy to your application. The commutator and brushes work together to keep the rotation smooth and continuous.

Common Applications

You often see brushed motors in places where you need a balance of power, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Here are some of the most common uses for a 24 volt brush motor:

  • Electric vehicles: You get dependable power for electric bikes, scooters, and small cars.

  • Robotics: Brushed motors handle heavy tasks and provide steady movement in robotic arms and platforms.

  • Medical tools: You find them in devices that require accuracy and reliability, such as pumps and surgical equipment.

  • Home automation: Brushed motors power systems like automated blinds, locks, and small appliances.

  • Green energy systems: You use them in solar and wind power setups to convert energy efficiently.

You choose brushed motors for these applications because they offer simple control, easy integration, and proven performance. The design of a brush motor lets you achieve reliable results without complex electronics. When you need a dc motor that works right out of the box, brushed motors often provide the best solution.

Brushless Motors: How 24 Volt DC Electric Motors Work

When you look at brushless motors, you see a different approach to creating motion. Brushless motors use electronic commutation instead of brushes. This means you get a system that switches the current in the windings as the rotor turns. The stator holds the coils, and the rotor uses permanent magnets. The interaction between these magnetic fields produces torque. Brushless motors rely on Lorentz’s force law. When current flows through the coils, it creates a magnetic field. This field interacts with the rotor’s magnets, causing rotation. The electronic controller changes the current direction, so the magnetic poles keep shifting. This process keeps the rotor moving smoothly. Unlike brushed motors, brushless motors do not use brushes or a commutator. You get less friction, less wear, and more efficiency. The method of commutation is the main reason why brushless motors last longer and need less maintenance.

INEED Brushless Motor Features

You benefit from several advanced features when you choose an INEED brushless motor. The design offers a long lifespan and reduces maintenance. You get high efficiency, with operational efficiency ranging from 70% to 90%. The brushless DC design allows for variable speed control, so you can adjust speeds from 400 RPM to 2500 RPM. Soft-start technology reduces mechanical stress during startup. The electronic soft brake gives you precise stopping control. You can reverse the rotation easily, which helps in many workflows. The robust build ensures secure installation and compatibility with different components. INEED brushless motors also provide high torque at reduced speeds, making them ideal for precise applications. You can fine-tune speed and control with adjustable gear ratios. The compact design fits projects that need high accuracy. Energy efficiency means you use less power but get reliable performance. Smooth and quiet operation is essential for sensitive environments like medical devices and smart home systems.

Feature

Description

Brushless DC Design

Extended lifespan, reduced maintenance, superior efficiency

Variable Speed Control

Seamless speed adjustments from 400 RPM to 2500 RPM

Soft-Start Technology

Reduces mechanical stress and power surges during startup

Electronic Soft Brake

Precise stopping control for safety and accuracy

Reversible Rotation

Easy direction switching for various workflows

Robust Build

Durable design for secure installation and compatibility

Typical Uses

You find brushless motors in many industries because they solve problems that brushed motors cannot. In medical devices, brushless motors provide quiet, reliable power for dental handpieces and surgical tools. Robotics uses brushless motors for precise movement and long service life. Smart home products, such as electric curtains and automated blinds, use brushless motors for silent operation and energy savings. Industrial automation depends on brushless motors for high efficiency and low maintenance. You also see brushless motors in home appliances like air conditioners, refrigerators, and electric fans. These motors offer low maintenance, quiet operation, and long life. Commercial products, including laser printers, drones, and power tools, use brushless motors to reduce noise and increase efficiency. Precision devices, such as hard drives and DVD players, rely on brushless motors for reliability and long product life. The automotive industry uses brushless motors for electric power steering, headlamp leveling, and door lock motors. You get enhanced safety, comfort, and low maintenance in vehicles.

Application Area

Examples of Use

Effectiveness

Home Appliances

Air conditioners, refrigerators, electric fans

Low maintenance, quiet operation, long life

Commercial Products

Laser printers, drones, power tools

Versatile, reduces noise, increases efficiency

Precision Devices

Hard drives, DVD players, Blu-Ray recorders

Reliability, long product life

Automotive Industry

Electric power steering, headlamp leveling, door locks

Safety, comfort, long life, low maintenance

You choose brushless motors because they give you better performance, longer life, and less maintenance. The latest advancements, such as improved magnet materials and digital control systems, make brushless motors even more efficient and versatile. You get motors that are smaller, lighter, and more energy efficient. This is why brushless motors have become the preferred choice for modern applications.

Brushed vs. Brushless Motors: Performance Comparison

Efficiency and Power

You want your 24 volt DC electric motor to deliver high performance and reliable efficiency. When you compare brushed and brushless motors, you notice clear differences in how they use energy and produce power. Brushless motors stand out for their high performance, especially in demanding applications. They use electronic commutation, which reduces friction and energy loss. This design leads to higher efficiency and more consistent power output.

Take a look at the efficiency ratings:

Motor Type

Efficiency Rating

Brushless Motors

85-90%

Brushed Motors

75-80%

You see that brushless motors convert more electrical energy into mechanical motion. This means less waste and lower operating costs. In real-world applications, such as INEED’s brushless gear motors for pool cleaners, you get high performance and energy efficiency. These motors help pool cleaners climb stairs and handle debris without losing power. Brushed motors, while reliable, cannot match the efficiency or high performance of brushless designs. You might choose brushed motors for simple tasks, but when you need high performance and energy efficiency, brushless motors are the better choice.

Durability and Maintenance

You want your motor to last as long as possible with minimal maintenance. Brushless motors excel in this area. They do not have brushes that wear out, so you get a longer lifespan and less frequent maintenance. Here is a comparison of average lifespans and working hours:

Motor Type

Average Lifespan (Years)

Average Continuous Working Hours

Brushless Motors

7 to 10

20,000 to 30,000

Brushed Motors

2 to 3

1,000 to 5,000

Brushless motors typically last between 7 to 10 years and can operate for 20,000 to 30,000 hours. Brushed motors have a lifespan of only 2 to 3 years, with 1,000 to 5,000 hours of continuous use. You also need to consider maintenance requirements:

Motor Type

Maintenance Requirements

Impact on Cost of Ownership

Brushed Motors

Regular inspection of brushes and commutator, replacement of brushes, cleaning commutator, lubricating bearings, checking electrical connections

Higher long-term costs due to frequent maintenance and potential downtime

Brushless Motors

Minimal maintenance, occasional bearing checks

Lower long-term costs due to reduced maintenance needs and longer lifespan

You spend more time and money maintaining brushed motors. You need to replace brushes, clean the commutator, and check for wear. Brushless motors require only occasional bearing checks. This low maintenance design saves you time and money. For example, INEED’s brushless motors in electric dental handpieces provide high performance and reliability with minimal maintenance, making them ideal for healthcare environments.

Cost and Value

You want to know which motor gives you the best value over time. Brushed motors have a lower initial cost, so you might choose them for budget-sensitive projects. However, you need to consider the total cost of ownership. Frequent maintenance and shorter lifespan increase the long-term cost of brushed motors. Brushless motors cost more upfront, but you save money over time because of their durability and low maintenance.

Feature

Brushed DC Motor

Brushless DC Motor

Initial Cost

Lower upfront

Higher, but long-term savings

Total cost over time

Low start cost, higher upkeep

Higher start cost, lower upkeep

You see the difference in real-world applications. INEED’s brushless gear motors for smart home electric curtains offer high performance and low maintenance, which means you get cost-effectiveness and long-term value. You avoid frequent repairs and replacements, making brushless motors a smart investment for high performance and reliability.

Noise and Control

You want your motor to run quietly and give you precise control. Brushed motors generate mechanical noise because the brushes rub against the commutator. This noise can increase as the brushes wear out, leading to high-pitched sounds that are hard to eliminate. Brushless motors operate quietly because they do not have brushes. The electronic controller manages current distribution, so you get smooth and silent operation.

  • Brushed motors: Generate mechanical noise due to brush and commutator contact. Noise increases over time.

  • Brushless motors: Operate quietly with no mechanical contact. Electronic control ensures low noise.

You notice the difference in applications like INEED’s electric screwdrivers and dental handpieces. Brushless motors provide quiet, high performance, and precise speed control. This makes them ideal for environments where noise reduction and accuracy matter. You also benefit from advanced features like variable speed control and electronic braking, which are easier to implement with brushless motors.

Tip: If you need high performance, low maintenance, and quiet operation, brushless motors from INEED deliver the best results for most applications.

Best Applications for 24 Volt DC Electric Motors

You want to choose the right 24 volt DC electric motor for your project. The best choice depends on your application’s needs for efficiency, reliability, and control. INEED offers custom solutions for a wide range of applications, ensuring you get the right motor for your industry.

Robotics and Automation

You often see 24 volt DC motors in robotics and automation because you need precise control and high torque. Brushless motors work well in these systems due to their efficiency and quiet operation. Brushed motors offer a simple design and lower cost, which can be useful for basic automation tasks. The table below shows why many engineers prefer brushless motors for advanced robotics:

Feature

Brushed DC Motors

Brushless DC Motors

Working

Uses mechanical brushes for commutation

Uses electronic controllers for commutation

Efficiency

Efficiency decreases over time due to wear

More efficient, less wear and heat generation

Noise

Noisier due to mechanical brushes

Quieter operation, ideal for sensitive applications

Complexity

Simple design, easy to operate

More complex control systems for precision

Cost

Generally cheaper, but higher maintenance

Higher initial cost, but lower maintenance over time

INEED’s brushless gear motors for pool cleaners and robotic arms deliver torque stability and long service life, making them ideal for demanding automation environments.

Medical and Healthcare Devices

You need motors that are reliable, quiet, and precise in medical devices. Brushless DC motors stand out in this field. They provide high efficiency, low heat, and minimal vibration. These features are essential for patient comfort and safety. INEED’s brushless motors for dental handpieces and surgical tools show how you can achieve accurate motion control and long-term reliability.

Advantage

Description

Reliability and Long Service Life

Low wear and tear, minimal maintenance.

Flexibility in Design and Customization

Customizable for unique medical requirements.

Quiet Operation for Patient Comfort

Operates quietly, reducing patient stress.

High Efficiency and Low Heat Generation

Efficient energy conversion, crucial for thermal management.

Precision Motion Control

Delivers accurate torque and speed control.

Reduced Vibration

Low noise and vibration for better patient experience.

Smart Home and Consumer Electronics

You want your smart home devices to run quietly and efficiently. Brushless motors are the preferred choice for electric curtains, robotic vacuums, and fans. These motors offer high torque in a compact size, which is important for modern, space-saving designs. INEED’s solutions for intelligent electric curtains and electronics-motor fusion in consumer products show how you can achieve reliable and silent operation.

  • Robotic vacuums use pancake BLDC motors to boost suction efficiency.

  • Magnetic levitation fans use sensorless motors for compact cooling.

  • IoT-enabled devices allow remote monitoring and real-time adjustments.

Industrial Equipment

You need motors that can handle tough environments and continuous operation in industrial equipment. Brushless motors provide better performance and lower long-term costs, especially in high-utilization settings. Brushed motors may suit intermittent or basic tasks due to their lower upfront cost. INEED customizes motors for your specific industrial needs, ensuring reliable operation even in harsh conditions.

Tip: Brushless motors often pay for themselves within 18 months in high-use industrial applications due to energy savings and reduced maintenance.

You can rely on INEED’s expertise to match the right motor to your requirements, whether you need precision, durability, or cost-effectiveness.

Pros and Cons Table: Brushed vs. Brushless Motors

When you compare brushed and brushless motors, you want to know why one might work better for your project. You need to look at the main features, advantages, and disadvantages of each type. This helps you decide which motor fits your needs best.

Here is a clear table to help you see the differences:

Feature

Brushed Motor

Brushless Motor

Lifetime

Shorter

Longer

Maintenance Requirements

Regular brush replacement

Minimal

Speed & Acceleration

Lower

Higher

Efficiency

Lower

Higher

Noise & Vibration Levels

Higher

Lower

Torque

Moderate

Higher

Weight & Size

Lighter

Heavier

Cost

Lower

Higher

You see that a brushed motor usually costs less at first. You might choose it if you want a simple design and easy setup. You also get a lighter motor, which can help in small devices. However, you need to replace the brushes often. This means more maintenance and a shorter lifespan. You also get more noise and vibration because the brushes touch the commutator.

A brushless motor gives you a longer life and less maintenance. You get higher efficiency and better speed control. You also notice less noise and smoother operation. This makes brushless motors great for places where quiet and precision matter. You pay more at the start, but you save money over time because you do not need to replace parts as often.

Why Choose Each Motor?

  • If you want a motor that is simple, affordable, and easy to use, you might pick a brushed motor.

  • If you need high performance, long life, and quiet operation, you should consider a brushless motor.

Tip: Think about how often you will use the motor and how much maintenance you want to do. This helps you choose the right type for your project.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

  • Brushed Motors:

    • Pros: Simple design, low initial cost, easy to control, lighter weight.

    • Cons: Shorter lifespan, more maintenance, higher noise, lower efficiency.

  • Brushless Motors:

    • Pros: Long lifespan, minimal maintenance, high efficiency, quiet operation, precise control.

    • Cons: Higher initial cost, needs electronic controller, heavier.

You can use this table and list to decide why one motor type might work better for your needs.

You want to know why you should choose a brushed or brushless 24 volt DC electric motor. Brushed motors work well when you need simple control and low upfront cost. Brushless motors give you higher efficiency and longer lifespan. You should look at your application’s needs before you decide. Use this table to compare brushed and brushless motors:

Motor Type

Efficiency Benefits

Lifespan Features

Brushless DC Motors

More efficient, less friction

Lasts longer, fewer parts to wear out

Brushed Motors

Less efficient, brush-related losses

Wears out faster, more moving parts

Think about these criteria:

  • Efficiency

  • Lifespan

  • Torque and speed requirements

  • Environmental factors

  • Specific application needs

You should match the motor’s voltage and power to your project. INEED helps you find the best brushed or brushless motor for your needs. You get expert support and custom solutions for every application.

FAQ

Why should you choose a brushed motor for simple projects?

You should choose a brushed motor when you want easy setup and control. Brushed motors work well for basic tasks because you do not need complex electronics. You save money and time on installation.

Why do brushed motors need more maintenance than brushless motors?

Brushed motors use physical brushes that wear down over time. You need to replace these brushes and clean the commutator. This regular maintenance keeps the motor running smoothly but increases your workload.

Why do brushed motors create more noise during operation?

You hear more noise from brushed motors because the brushes rub against the commutator. This contact causes friction and vibration. Over time, the noise gets louder as the brushes wear out.

Why do some industries still use brushed motors despite new technology?

You see brushed motors in many industries because they offer reliable performance and low initial cost. Some applications do not need advanced features. Brushed motors provide a simple solution for these needs.

Why do you need to consider lifespan when choosing between brushed and brushless motors?

You need to think about lifespan because brushed motors wear out faster. The brushes and commutator need replacement. Brushless motors last longer, so you spend less time and money on repairs.

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