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Servo Motor Types

A servo motor is a rotational or translational motor which is powered by a servo amplifier. The purpose of a servo motor is to apply torque or force to a mechanical system, such as an actuator or brake. The currents that flow to servo motors are AC and DC.

AC servo motors are more common in industrial heavy machinery, as they can handle higher current surges. DC servo motors are better suited for smaller applications due to their precision and feedback. In a servo motor, speed is determined by the frequency of the applied voltage and the number of magnetic poles.

Parts Of a Servo Motor

A servo motor is composed of:

  • An electric motor: generates the motion through its shaft.
  • A control system: allows for control over the motor’s motion by sending electric pulses.
  • A drive system: is formed by gears which may increase or decrease the speed and torque.
  • A potentiometer: is connected to the central shaft, and informs at all times the angle in which the motor’s shaft is positioned.

Three Basic Types of Servo Motors

Servo motors come in many sizes for different applications, but come in three basic types.

Positional Rotation Servo Motor

These servos rotate 180 degrees. They also have stops in the gear mechanism to protect the output shaft from over-rotating.

Continuous Rotation Servo Motor

This is a servo motor that does not have a limit on its range of motion. Instead of having the input signal determine which position the servo should rotate to, the continuous rotation servo relates the input to the speed of the output and direction.

Linear Servo Motor

These servo motors use a rack and pinion mechanism to change their output. The rack and pinion combination converts rotary motion to linear motion.

Servo Motor for Sale

EP Normand is a specialist variable speed drive company. Metals, cable, paper and plastic industries are typical customers. Our suppliers in the countries of origin train our staff, and all have recognised engineering qualifications. We are able to supply a turnkey solution in this business, and supply a 24-hour back-up service. Contact our team for more information and to order your products.