A Primer on Creating Motion with Servo Motors and Drives for Beginners

Servo motors are a type of industrial motor used in motion control applications such as robotics, printing, CNC machines, cutting and forming machines, conveyor belts and more. Compared to the other main type of motion control motor – stepper motors – servo motors have many distinct technical advantages.

Generally speaking, servo motors generate higher torque over a wide speed range and are available in a wider range of torque and voltages. These compact motors use only the power required to complete a given motion and respond well to torque disturbances.

Given all the benefits that servo motors bring, how can you create motion with servo motors? How can you implement them in your facility and get started?

The 5 Step Process for Creating Motion with Servo Motors and Drives

While every application and facility will have unique considerations when implementing servo motors, there are 5 general steps to take in order to create motion with servo motors.

1. Sizing the Motor: the first step is to determine the size of the motor needed, which will help avoid troubles controlling loads and over paying for a motor with too much power. Accurate sizing requires specific knowledge of the details of the mechanical system, the operating parameters, and the circumstances in which the equipment is used.
2. Selecting the Motor: based on the parameters calculated during the sizing process, the next step is to select the motor and drive that fits these parameters. Typically, a manufacturer’s product catalogue will offer a helpful guide in selecting the right motor based on key performance requirements.
3. Installing the Motor: installation is typically a three-step process, including the mounting of the drive and power supply to a control cabinet, mounting the motor onto the machine, and then wiring all the electrical components together to complete the system.
4. Configuration: in this step, you will need to configure the motion control system to fit your unique application. Manufacturers often include an easy-to-use software interface for tuning your motion control system once it’s installed and turned on for the first time.
5. Creating Motion: The last step, after your system is fine tuned to your application, is creating motion profiles. Q programming is a common language used to create sophisticated and functional motion control programs for the control of your motion system.

Every system will have individual considerations during the implementation process, but the 5-step process outlined above is a good general guideline for anyone seeking to leverage servo motors in their application.

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