Classification of Stepper Motors

Title: Classification of Stepper Motors

Stepper motors are widely used in various industries for their precise control and positioning capabilities. Among the different types of stepper motors available, the LeanMotor brand offers a range of options suitable for diverse applications. In this article, we will explore the classification of stepper motors based on their structural forms and control systems.

Structural Classification: Stepper motors can be classified into various types based on their structural forms. These include Variable Reluctance (VR), Permanent Magnet (PM), Hybrid Stepping (HS), single-phase stepper motors, and flat stepper motors. In China, the predominant type of stepper motor used is the Variable Reluctance stepper motor. Each type has its own unique characteristics and advantages.

1. Variable Reluctance (VR): The Variable Reluctance stepper motor consists of windings on the stator and a rotor made of soft magnetic material. It is known for its simple structure, low cost, and small step angle, which can be as low as 1.2°. However, it exhibits poor dynamic performance, low efficiency, high heat generation, and reliability issues.

2. Permanent Magnet (PM): The rotor of a Permanent Magnet stepper motor is made of permanent magnetic material, with the same number of poles as the stator. This type of motor offers good dynamic performance and high output torque. However, it has lower precision and a larger step angle, typically around 7.5° or 15°.

3. Hybrid Stepping (HS): The Hybrid Stepping stepper motor combines the advantages of Variable Reluctance and Permanent Magnet motors. It features multiple-phase windings on the stator and permanent magnetic material on the rotor, with multiple small teeth on both the rotor and stator to improve step accuracy. This type of motor offers high output torque, good dynamic performance, and a small step angle. However, it has a more complex structure and relatively higher cost.

Based on the stator windings, stepper motors are available in two-phase, three-phase, and five-phase series. The two-phase hybrid stepper motor is the most popular, accounting for over 97% of the market share. This is due to its high cost-effectiveness and excellent performance when paired with microstep drivers. The basic step angle of this motor is 1.8° per step, which can be reduced to 0.9° with a half-step driver and further subdivided up to 256 times (0.007° per microstep) with a microstep driver. However, due to factors such as friction and manufacturing precision, the actual control precision is slightly lower. The same stepper motor can be paired with different subdivision drivers to adjust precision and performance.

Control System Classification: The performance of a stepper motor is closely related to its control system. Stepper motor control systems can be categorized into three types: open-loop control system, closed-loop control system, and semi-closed-loop control system. In practical applications, semi-closed-loop control systems are generally classified under open-loop or closed-loop systems.

Stepper motors play a crucial role in various industrial and commercial applications, and understanding their classification and control systems is essential for selecting the most suitable motor for specific requirements. With advancements in technology and manufacturing processes, stepper motors continue to evolve, offering improved performance, precision, and reliability for a wide range of applications. LeanMotor's diverse range of stepper motors provides options for various industrial and commercial needs, catering to the growing demand for precise and reliable motion control solutions.

In conclusion, stepper motors are vital components in modern automation and robotics, and their classification based on structural forms and control systems provides valuable insights for engineers, designers, and manufacturers seeking optimal motor solutions for their applications.

This comprehensive overview of stepper motor classification and control systems aims to enhance understanding and facilitate informed decision-making in the selection and utilization of stepper motors across diverse industries.