Brushless DC Outrunner Motors: Design Features, Performance Characteristics, and Ideal Use Cases

Table of Contents

You might wonder why brushless dc outrunner motors are special today. These brushless motors have an outside rotor that spins around a stator inside. This makes them different from other brushless dc motors. They give high torque at low speed. They are light and work very well. Many good things come from the brushless design. This means less damage and a long life. People pick these motors for drones, robots, and electric bikes. They want motors that are reliable, quiet, and work well. The world market for brushless dc motors is growing quickly. People want smarter and better ways to use energy.

The table below shows how fast the brushless dc outrunner motors market is growing:

Year

Market Size (USD Billion)

CAGR (%)

2024

12.55

2025

13.89

10.17

2030

22.45

Key Takeaways

  • Brushless DC outrunner motors have a rotor on the outside. This rotor spins around the stator. These motors give more torque at low speeds. This makes them great for drones, e-bikes, and robots.

  • These motors use materials that are light and strong. They need good cooling to work well and last longer. Good cooling helps devices run smoothly and quietly.

  • Brushless motors let you control speed and torque better. They use special controllers for this. This gives smooth and exact operation in many uses.

  • They work better and last longer than brushed motors. They save energy and lower repair costs over time.

  • Picking the right brushless motor is important. You must match torque, speed, and cooling to your project. This helps the motor work best and last longer.

Design of Brushless DC Outrunner Motors

Rotor and Stator

When you see a brushless dc motor, the outrunner type stands out. The rotor is on the outside and spins around the stator in the middle. This is not like inrunner brushless dc motors. In those, the rotor is inside the stator. The outside rotor gives a longer lever arm. This helps the motor make more torque at lower speeds. That is why brushless dc outrunner motors are great for drones and electric bikes. These machines need strong turning force but not high speed.

Tip: Where the rotor and stator are placed changes how much torque and speed your brushless motor can give.

Here is a table that shows how outrunner and inrunner brushless dc motors are different:

Aspect

Outrunner Motor (External Rotor)

Inrunner Motor (Internal Rotor)

Rotor Location

Magnets on the outside of the motor

Magnets inside the stator

Stator Location

Coil winding fixed in the center

Coil winding fixed on the outside

Rotating Part

Outer casing spins around the stator

Inner rotor spins inside the stator

Torque Output

More torque because of a bigger radius

Less torque because of a smaller radius

Speed Capability

Lower top speed because it is heavier

Higher top speed because it is lighter

Heat Dissipation

Not as good at cooling; stator is inside

Better at cooling; stator is on the outside

Typical Applications

Good for high torque, low/medium speed jobs

Good for high speed, high power jobs

You can see brushless dc outrunner motors give more torque. Inrunner motors spin faster and cool down better.

Materials and Build

The materials in a brushless dc motor change how it works. Most brushless dc outrunner motors use light metals like aluminum for the case. This keeps the motor light, which is good for drones and robots. The rotor uses strong magnets. The stator has copper windings. Some new motors use composite materials or 3D printed parts. These choices make the brushless motor strong and light.

A study from MIT tested a brushless dc outrunner motor. It found that the right materials help the motor handle high power for short times. This is important if you need a quick burst of power, like in robots. Another study showed that 3D printed rotors make the motor lighter. This helps drones fly longer and carry more.

Note: Better materials in your brushless dc motors mean more efficiency, less weight, and a motor that lasts longer.

Cooling and Efficiency

Brushless dc outrunner motors must stay cool to work well. If the motor gets too hot, the copper windings can get weak. The magnets can also lose strength. Most brushless dc motors use heat sinks and air vents to move heat away. Some have fans or cooling fins built into the case. The outer shell helps spread heat out and keeps the inside safe.

If you keep your brushless dc motor cool, it works better and lasts longer. High heat can make the motor less efficient and cause damage over time. Good cooling lets your brushless motor run longer without trouble. Certifications like CE and EN 60204-1 check that brushless dc motors meet safety and cooling rules. This means you can trust them in your projects.

Outrunner vs Inrunner

Why pick a brushless dc outrunner motor instead of an inrunner? Outrunners give more torque for the same size and power. The rotor spins on the outside, making a bigger circle and more turning force. Inrunners spin faster but have less torque. You may need a gearbox to get the same power.

  • Brushless dc outrunner motors:

    • Give higher torque at lower speeds.

    • Work best for drones, e-bikes, and robots.

    • Are lighter for the same power because of smart design and materials.

    • Need good cooling to keep working well.

  • Brushless dc inrunner motors:

    • Spin faster and stay cooler.

    • Work best for tools and machines that need high speed.

    • Have less torque, so you may need extra parts for more force.

Here is a quick table to help you compare:

Parameter for comparison

Inrunner

Outrunner

Torque

Lower

Higher

You can see brushless dc outrunner motors are best when you need strong, steady power at lower speeds. That is why they are used in many modern devices.

Did you know? A review in Nature showed brushless dc outrunner motors are more efficient and powerful for drones than inrunner types. This is why most drone makers use them.

When you pick a brushless dc motor, think about what you need: more torque or more speed. The motor’s design changes how it works. Picking the right type helps you get the best results.

Performance of Brushless DC Motors

Torque and Power

Brushless dc motors give strong torque and power because of their special design. The external rotor acts like a long lever arm. This helps the motor make more torque at low and medium speeds. Electric bikes and drones use this to move or lift off easily. These machines need lots of torque to start or go uphill.

Application

Typical Power Output (kW)

Typical Torque Range (Nm)

Notes

Electric Bicycle (E-bike)

0.25 to 0.5 kW (250W to 500W)

10 to 20 Nm

Motors help with pedaling and climbing hills; run at 36V or 48V; outrunner motors are picked for higher torque

Drone

About 0.1 to 0.3 kW (hundreds of watts)

Lower than e-bikes; outrunners give more torque than inrunners

High power-to-weight ratio is important; outrunners are chosen for torque

The magnets are far from the center in a brushless dc motor. This helps you climb hills on an e-bike or lift a drone. The brushless motor gives steady power, so your device works smoothly.

Speed and Control

Brushless dc motors let you control speed and torque very well. You use a brushless dc controller, called an ESC, to manage the motor. The controller switches current in the coils by checking the rotor’s position. It does this with sensors or by reading back EMF.

  • The controller uses PWM to change voltage and control speed.

  • It changes current to control torque.

  • The controller finds the rotor’s position with Hall-effect sensors or by reading back EMF.

  • Some controllers use FOC for smoother and better work.

  • The controller checks your wanted speed and the real speed and fixes it right away.

Brushless dc motors give a wide speed range. You can start slow, speed up fast, or keep a steady pace. This is why they work well in drones, e-bikes, and robots. The controller gives you the exact speed and torque you want.

Tip: For smooth starts and stops, pick a brushless dc motor with a good controller. This setup gives you the best control.

Efficiency and Density

Brushless dc motors are popular because they are efficient and powerful for their size. They can turn up to 90% of electrical power into mechanical power. Brushed motors only reach about 75% to 80%. This means less energy is lost as heat and more work gets done.

Brushless dc motors are small and light but still strong. For example, a brushless dc motor in a hybrid car like the Toyota Prius can reach about 1.4 kW per kilogram. This is much more than an internal combustion engine. High efficiency and density make brushless motors great for electric cars, drones, and portable devices.

Motor Type

Power Density (kW/kg)

Efficiency (%)

Brushless DC Motor

Up to 1.4

85–95

Brushed DC Motor

Lower

75–85

Induction Motor

Lower

85–92

PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor)

Similar or higher

92–98

You save energy and can use smaller batteries with brushless dc motors. This is why engineers use them in devices that must run longer and weigh less.

Noise and Maintenance

Brushless dc motors are quiet because they do not have brushes rubbing inside. The brushless design lowers friction and vibration. Most brushless dc motors in homes make less than 60 dB of noise. Even in factories, brushless motors usually stay under 75 dB.

Bar chart comparing typical noise level limits of DC motors across application fields

You also spend less time and money fixing brushless dc motors. The brushless design removes parts that wear out fast, like brushes and commutators. You do not need to replace these parts or stop your machine for repairs. Brushless dc motors often last over 20,000 hours. You get more value over time, even if they cost more at first.

  • Brushless motors use sealed, oiled bearings to lower wear.

  • Good cooling and dust protection help the motor last longer.

  • You avoid common problems like brush wear, which is a big issue in brushed motors.

Note: If you want a quiet motor that needs little care, a brushless dc motor is the best pick. You save on repairs and enjoy a longer life.

Use Cases for Brushless Motors

Use Cases for Brushless Motors

Drones and UAVs

Most drones today use brushless motors. Companies like DJI pick them because they give high torque and are light. These motors help drones fly longer and carry more weight. They make less noise and are more reliable, so flights are stable. You get better battery life and smoother flying. Outrunner brushless motors work well with big rotors and keep drones light. Their simple winding design makes them cheaper and easier to build. If you want a drone that flies longer and can carry a camera, you need a brushless motor.

RC and Model Aircraft

Brushless motors have changed RC planes a lot. When you use a brushless dc motor, there are no brushes, so there is less friction. This means your battery lasts longer and your plane can fly farther. High torque at low speeds helps with takeoff and landing. You get smooth and quiet flights with good control. An electronic speed controller lets you change speed and torque fast. The small size of brushless motors fits well in model planes and keeps them balanced. You get longer flights and better moves than with brushed motors.

E-Bikes and Scooters

Most new e-bikes and scooters use brushless dc motors. These motors give strong torque at low speeds, so you can start fast and go up hills easily. They are small and light but still powerful. Companies like Trishul Motor Co. and SpeedoTech Motors make these motors for electric vehicles. You get longer rides, quick starts, and less work to keep them running. The brushless design keeps your ride quiet and reliable. If you want an e-bike or scooter that goes far and needs little care, brushless motors are the best choice.

Robotics and Automation

Brushless dc motors are important in robots and automation. You need smooth moves and good control for things like picking up objects. The brushless design gives high efficiency and lasts a long time. Electronic controllers take the place of brushes, so you get exact speed and position. Outrunner brushless motors have higher rotor inertia, so movement is smoother and more exact. You see these motors in robot arms, mobile robots, and medical devices. They need little care and make less electromagnetic noise, so they are good for careful jobs.

Feature/Advantage

Why It Matters for Robotics and Automation

High Efficiency

More power for movement, less heat and energy loss

Durability and Longevity

Less maintenance, longer life for your robot

Precision and Control

Accurate speed and position for fine tasks

Compact and Lightweight

Fits in small robots and drones

Low Maintenance

Fewer repairs, more uptime

High Power-to-Weight Ratio

More power in less space

Other Applications

You now see brushless motors in many new places. Medical tools like surgical robots and dental drills use brushless dc motors because they are small, strong, and quiet. The brushless design keeps things clean and needs less fixing, which is important in hospitals. Power tools like drills and milling machines use brushless motors for smooth speed changes and better work. Factories use them because they are light and work at many speeds. As more things use electricity and automation, you will see brushless dc motors in more home, medical, and factory machines every year.

Tip: If you want a motor that is reliable, efficient, and easy to take care of, brushless motors are a great choice for many uses today.

Choosing a Brushless Motor

Selection Criteria

When you choose a brushless dc motor, you want the best fit for your project. You need to know why each factor matters. The right brushless motor gives you better performance, longer life, and less trouble. You should always start by understanding your application. Ask yourself what you need for power, speed, and torque. These three things decide how well your brushless dc motor will work.

Tip: Always check the brushless dc motor guide from the manufacturer before you buy.

Here is a table to help you see why each selection criterion is important:

Selection Criterion

Description

Motor Construction

Outrunner motors give higher torque because of a larger rotor.

Sensor Type

Sensored motors help with smooth starts. Sensorless motors work better at high speed.

Power Requirements

Match voltage, current, and power to your device’s needs.

Duty Cycle

Use below 30% stall torque for long life. Higher loads can cause overheating.

Gearbox Use

Gearboxes change speed and torque. Pick the right one for your task.

Environmental Needs

Choose motors with the right IP rating for dust, water, or heat.

You should also think about where you will use the brushless motor. Outdoor use needs protection from dust and water. Indoor use may need less protection but good cooling. Always check for proper airflow and cooling to keep your brushless dc motor safe.

Matching Specs to Needs

You want your brushless dc motor to match your project perfectly. Why? The right match means you get the best efficiency and reliability. Start by calculating the torque you need. Use the formula: T = 8 × C × W × D. T is torque, C is friction, W is weight, and D is wheel diameter. Make sure your brushless motor gives more torque than the load needs.

Next, decide how fast you want your device to move. Speed is key for many projects. If you need high speed, check the KV value. This tells you how many RPMs you get per volt. For heavy loads or hills, pick a brushless dc motor with high torque and lower speed.

Think about size and shape. Outrunner brushless motors are wider but shorter. They fit well in drones and e-bikes. If you need fast changes in speed, remember that outrunners have more inertia and respond slower.

You should also look at cooling and the environment. Motors for outdoor use need covers but still need airflow. Pick a brushless dc motor with the right IP rating for dust and water. Good cooling keeps your brushless motor running longer.

Note: Customizing your brushless dc motor helps you get the best results for robotics or electric vehicles. You can pick the power, voltage, torque, speed, and even the gearbox.

A good brushless dc motor guide will help you compare all these factors. When you know why each factor matters, you can choose the best brushless motor for your needs.

You pick a brushless DC motor for strong power and long use. The outrunner type is special because the outside spins around the inside coils. This gives more turning force and needs less fixing.

  • These motors are in drones and e-bikes because they start fast and are quiet.

  • Make sure the motor’s size, controller, and cooling fit your project.

  • Think about if paying more is worth the longer life and better work.

Factor

Why It Matters for You

Torque

Helps you start strong and go uphill

Efficiency

Makes your battery last longer

Longevity

Means less fixing and more use

FAQ

Why do brushless DC outrunner motors give more torque than inrunner motors?

You get more torque from outrunner motors because the magnets sit farther from the center. This larger radius acts like a longer lever arm. It lets the motor turn heavier loads with less effort.

Why should you choose a brushless DC outrunner motor for drones?

You should pick this motor for drones because it gives high torque and stays light. This helps your drone lift off quickly and fly longer. The design also keeps your drone stable in the air.

Why do brushless DC motors last longer than brushed motors?

You avoid brush wear with brushless DC motors. No brushes means less friction and fewer parts that break. This design lets your motor run for thousands of hours with little maintenance.

Why do you need a special controller for brushless DC motors?

You need a controller to switch the current in the coils at the right time. This keeps the motor spinning smoothly. The controller also lets you change speed and direction easily.

Why do people search for brushless dc motor faqs before buying?

You want to understand how these motors work and why they fit your project. Reading brushless dc motor faqs helps you make smart choices and avoid mistakes when picking a motor.

Share the Post:
80icon copy 10

Connect with our expert motor engineers.

Allow us to help you realize your project from concept to mass production while minimizing design and production risks.

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

en_USEnglish

Motors Catalog Download

Download and view the full series catalog for free

Contact Us

You need our support, and we are ready to provide assistance.

Motor products pose complexities in understanding, specifying, and integrating, with no industry standards. We offer expertise to mitigate design, manufacturing, and supply risks.

Contact our team now.

You can easily upload your 2D/3D CAD design files, and our sales engineering team will provide you with a quote within 24 hours.