DC Brushed Motor Selection Guide: How to Choose the Right Motor for Your Application

Table of Contents

To pick the right dc brushed motor, you must know what your project needs. Check the load, speed, and torque the motor will face. Look at the voltage and power your dc motors need. Think about the size and duty cycle of the motor. Consider where the motor will work. You should also think about maintenance and if the motor fits your system. When you match the motor specs to your project, you get better results and fewer problems.

Key Takeaways

  • First, know what your project needs. Check the load, speed, and torque. This helps you pick a motor that works well.

  • Always use the right voltage for your motor. Match it to your power supply. The correct voltage makes the motor work better and last longer.

  • Think about where the motor will be used. Temperature, humidity, and dust can change how it works. These things also affect how often you need to fix it.

  • It is important to take care of the motor. Check the brushes and clean off dust. Make sure the commutator is smooth. This keeps the motor working well.

  • Use a checklist when picking a motor. It helps you remember what is important. This way, you do not make common mistakes.

Application Needs

Application Needs

Load and Torque

First, you need to know the load for your project. The load tells you how much force the motor needs. You must figure out the torque by checking friction, mass, and how fast things move. These things help you pick the right motor for your job. Always add extra torque for safety. This helps if the load changes or gets harder to move. If you use a brushed dc motor with heavy loads, the brushes and commutators wear out faster. You will need to fix or replace them more often. The commutator makes the motor bigger and heavier. This can make some motors work less well.

  • Figure out load torque by looking at:

    • Friction

    • Mass

    • Acceleration

    • Extra torque for safety

Speed Requirements

Speed is very important when picking a dc motor. You can use a controller or lab tools to check speed, current, and torque. Make a chart to see how torque and speed change. For conveyor belts and other motors, you need high torque at low speed. This helps things move smoothly and work well. Brushed dc motors let you control speed exactly. This is needed for many machines.

  1. Use a controller to check voltage and current.

  2. Use lab tools to test speed with different loads.

  3. Add more torque until the motor stops, then write down the numbers.

  • High torque at low speed is needed for conveyor belts.

  • Good speed control helps work go faster and saves power.

Voltage and Power

You must check what voltage your dc motor needs. If you use less than 6 volts, the motor is weak. If you use more than 12 volts, the motor can break. Most robots use motors with 3V, 6V, 12V, or 24V. The power supply you have also matters. For battery-powered things, match the motor to the voltage and power supply. This helps your motor work well and last longer.

Voltage (V)

What It Means

3

Used in small projects

6

Used for many small motors

12

Used in robot projects

24

Used for bigger power needs

Bar chart showing common voltage ranges for DC brushed motors in robotics

Environment

Where the motor works changes how it runs and how often you fix it. Hot places change how the wires and magnets work. This changes torque and speed. Wet places can wear out the brushes and commutator. This can cause problems with electricity. Dust and chemicals mean you need to clean and fix the motor more. Dust can block heat from leaving the motor and make it too hot. Some gases can hurt the commutator. You should keep the motor clean and watch for dust in the air. This helps stop problems.

Environmental Factor

How It Changes Motor Work

Temperature

Changes wires and magnets, affects torque/speed

Humidity

Wears out brushes and commutator

Tip: Clean and check your motor often to stop problems like grounding, arcing, and sparking. Use filters or send clean air to your dc brushed motor if the place is dirty.

DC Motor Selection Factors

Brushed DC Motor Specs

When you pick a dc brushed motor, look at its main specs. These are voltage, current, speed, torque, and size. Each rating helps you see if the motor fits your project. Most of the time, check speed, torque, and voltage first. The torque gets higher when you raise the voltage. If you lower the voltage, torque and speed both go down. When voltage stays the same, torque drops as speed goes up. Always know how much torque your project needs. This makes sure you get enough power. Use these ratings to compare motors and pick the best one.

  • Main specs to check:

    • Voltage needed

    • Speed (RPM)

    • Torque (steady and peak)

    • Size

    • Duty cycle

Duty Cycle

Duty cycle means how long the motor can run before stopping. Some jobs need the motor to run all the time. Others only need it for short times. The right duty cycle helps the motor work better. If you use the wrong one, the motor can get too hot or break. Look at the table to see how different duty cycles change the motor:

Aspect

Continuous Duty Cycle

Intermittent Duty Cycle

Operation

Runs for a long time without stopping

Works in short times with breaks

Efficiency

Saves energy when used all the time

Gives more power for quick jobs

Overheating

Can get too hot if used too long

Cools off during breaks

Lifespan

Wears out faster if always running

Lasts longer because of rest

Application Suitability

Good for machines that never stop

Good for tools used in short bursts

Brushes last longer if you use the right duty cycle. Heavy use and high current can make them wear out faster.

Maintenance Needs

You need to take care of your dc motors to keep them working well. Check the brushes often and clean out dust. Make sure the commutator is smooth. Oil the bearings and look for damage. A steady power supply helps stop problems. If you skip these steps, the motor can get too hot or lose control. Different motors may need different care, so follow the rules for your motor.

  • Maintenance jobs:

    • Check and change brushes

    • Clean out carbon dust

    • Oil the bearings

    • Keep the commutator clean

System Compatibility

Before you use a brushed dc motor, make sure it works with your system. Check if it can talk to your control system. Some jobs need special connections like Profinet or Modbus. Test the motor with your system to stop problems. If your system uses Industry 4.0 or IIoT, make sure the motor works with these. Always match the motor to your project and power supply for the best results.

Tip: Ask your motor seller if the motor works with your control system. This helps you avoid mistakes and keeps things running smoothly.

Specify a DC Motor

Compare Specs

When you pick a dc motor, you need to look at the main specs. First, make a list of what your project needs. Write down the torque, speed, voltage, and size you want. Check how long the motor will run and where it will work. Look at the data sheets for each brushed dc motor. You will see numbers for voltage, current, speed, and torque. Use these numbers to find a motor that fits your project.

Here is an easy way to compare specs:

  1. Write down how much force and speed you need.

  2. Think about the place where the motor will work.

  3. Make sure the motor fits in your space.

  4. Decide how often the motor will run and how heavy the load is.

  5. Pick motors that use less power to save energy.

Tip: Make a table to compare specs from different motors. This helps you see which motor is best for your project.

Motor Model

Voltage (V)

Speed (RPM)

Torque (Nm)

Size (mm)

Duty Cycle

Efficiency (%)

Model A

12

3000

0.5

50×30

Continuous

75

Model B

24

2500

0.8

60×40

Intermittent

80

Model C

6

4000

0.3

40×20

Continuous

70

Check each number to see if it matches your needs. If you need good control, pick motors with strong speed and torque.

Select the Right Motor

After you compare specs, choose the motor that fits your project. Focus on what matters most. If you need high torque and low noise, pick a brush dc motor with those features. For medical tools, look for motors that last long and are quiet. If you want better efficiency, pick motors that use less power.

Follow these steps to pick the right motor:

  1. Write down the torque, speed, and size you need.

  2. Pick motors that can last a long time.

  3. Choose motors that save energy.

  4. Quiet motors are good for hospitals and offices.

  5. Pick motors that are easy to fix.

Manufacturers say you should measure brush size carefully. Double-check your numbers and use a chart to match the brush to your motor. This helps your motor work well and saves time. Always think about where the motor will work. If your project is in a hot or dusty place, pick a motor that can handle it.

Note: Use a size chart to check your measurements. This helps you pick the best dc motor for your project.

When you pick a dc motor, you make sure it fits your project and works with your system. You get better results and fewer problems. Use these steps to help you pick the motor that matches your needs.

Final Checklist

Review Steps

You can make picking a dc motor easier with a checklist. This helps you remember important things. Follow these steps to help you choose:

  1. Write down what your project needs. List the load, speed, and torque.

  2. Check the voltage and power supply for your dc motors.

  3. Measure the space for the motor. See if it fits.

  4. Decide how long the motor will run and how often.

  5. Think about the place where the motor will work. Look for dust, heat, or moisture.

  6. Compare different motor types. Pick the one that matches your needs.

  7. Look at the data sheets for each motor. Check speed, torque, and size.

  8. Test the motor with your system before you use it.

Tip: Using a checklist helps you stay organized. It helps you find problems early. You can save time and avoid mistakes that cost money.

Avoid Mistakes

Lots of people make the same mistakes when picking dc motors. You can stop these mistakes by checking every part of the motor before you use it. Pay close attention to the brushes. If you skip this, the motor may not work well or could break. Use the table below to check the brushes on your dc motors:

Condition to Check

Importance

Brush surface is smooth and shiny

Makes sure the brush touches the commutator well.

Brush surface is not chipped or cracked

Stops bad performance and keeps the motor safe.

Brush shape matches the commutator shape

Helps the brush fit right and work better.

The brush is not too short (or worn down)

Worn brushes can hurt the commutator and make the motor last less time.

Brush pigtail is in good condition

Makes sure the brush connects to electricity well.

Brush pigtail is tightly attached to brush

Stops the brush from coming loose and breaking the motor.

Other mistakes are picking the wrong voltage, not checking the duty cycle, or forgetting to see if the motor works with your system. Always check your choices before you put in the motor.

Remember: Careful checks help your dc motors last longer. They help your motors work better in every project.

You can select the best dc brushed motor for your applications by following these steps:

  1. Find your maximum speed.

  2. Decide if you need a gearbox.

  3. Check your torque needs.

  4. Pick the right frame size.

  5. Choose windings for current and speed.

  6. Think about the environment.

  7. Review standards and options.

Matching dc motors to your needs improves efficiency and lowers costs. Use a checklist to compare dc motor selection options and avoid mistakes. Start your selection now for better results.

FAQ

What is the most important factor when choosing a DC brushed motor?

You should always match the motor’s torque and speed to your project needs. If you get these right, your motor will work well and last longer.

How do I know if my motor can handle my project’s environment?

Check the motor’s datasheet for temperature and humidity ratings. If your project is in a dusty or wet place, pick a motor with extra protection.

Tip: Clean your motor often in harsh environments.

Can I use any voltage with my DC brushed motor?

No, you must use the voltage listed on the motor’s label or datasheet. Too much voltage can damage the motor. Too little voltage makes it weak.

How often should I check or replace the brushes?

You should check the brushes every few months if you use the motor a lot. Replace them if they look worn or short.

  • Clean out dust when you check the brushes.

What should I do if my motor gets too hot?

Stop the motor right away. Let it cool down. Check for dust or blockages. Make sure the load is not too heavy.

Note: Overheating can damage the motor quickly.

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