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Yaskawa V1000 Manual Explained: A Practical Guide for Engineers and Technicians
The Yaskawa V1000 is one of the most commonly used compact AC drives in the world. It is known for
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Servo Motors Explained: How They Work and Why They’re Essential in Automation
Servo motors power many machines we use every day. You’ll find them in factory robots, 3D printers, CNC machines, and even in remote-control car steering systems.
But what exactly are they, how do they function, and why are they so commonly used in industrial automation? In this post, we’ll explain the basics of servo motors in simple terms. No engineering degree is needed.
You’ll understand what a servo motor is, how it operates, where it’s used, and why it’s so precise and powerful. We’ll also discuss some of the most trusted servo motor brands in the automation industry today.
What is a Servo Motor?
A servo motor is a special type of motor that allows for controlled movement. It doesn’t just spin freely like a regular DC motor. Instead, it receives specific signals that tell it exactly how far to rotate and in what direction.
What sets servo motors apart is their ability to consistently check their position using built-in sensors. This feedback system lets them adjust instantly, keeping them accurate and responsive. You can think of it like a GPS for movement. The motor knows where it should be, compares that to its current position, and makes real-time corrections.
This level of precise control makes servo motors ideal for:
- Robotics
- CNC machinery
- Factory automation
- Camera focus systems
- Remote control steering systems
Why Servo Motors Are Vital in Automation
Servo motors are preferred in industrial automation for their ability to provide controlled motion, high torque, and energy efficiency in compact packages. Below are the key advantages they offer:
- High Precision: Servo motors can rotate to very specific angles with an accuracy of a fraction of a degree. This precision is crucial in tasks where even slight deviations can cause faults or defects, such as robotic pick-and-place operations or detailed cutting processes.
- Controlled Torque Output: Torque is the rotational force a motor can deliver. Servo motors come with defined torque ratings (e.g. in kg·cm or Nm), which allow engineers to match the motor to the specific load. For instance, a 25 kg·cm servo can maintain 25 kg of force at 1 cm from the shaft. These values scale predictably, making it easy to choose a servo based on load distance and weight.
- Efficiency: Once in position, servo motors draw minimal current to hold that position. This efficiency is one of the reasons they’re commonly chosen for applications that involve repeated, precise stops and holds.
- Speed and Responsiveness: Servo speed is usually measured in time per 60 degrees of rotation. Higher input voltage within rated limits generally leads to faster performance and greater torque. This responsiveness is critical in time-sensitive automation systems.
- Compact and Scalable: Servo motors offer a high power-to-size ratio. As torque demands increase, so does the physical size of the servo, but even high-torque models remain relatively compact compared to equivalent drive systems.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Servo Motor
Choosing the right servo motor requires more than just matching torque. Here are a few critical aspects to evaluate:
- Closed-loop vs open-loop: Closed-loop systems provide feedback via encoders or potentiometers to ensure the motor’s output matches the input command. Open-loop systems (rare in industrial contexts) lack this feedback, leading to less accurate control.
- Voltage requirements: Standard servo motors often operate between 4.8V and 7.2V, though industrial-grade units may run at 24V or higher. Higher voltage allows for increased torque and speed, but requires compatible controllers and careful thermal management.
- Stall conditions: If a servo motor is overloaded beyond its rated torque, it can stall, causing excessive current draw and possible damage. It’s important to define the worst-case load conditions in your application.
- Internal build quality: Two servos of the same size may perform very differently due to internal gearing, materials, and feedback resolution. Don’t assume that bigger is better—always evaluate based on specifications.
Leading Servo Motor Brands in Industrial Automation
Check out one of our previous blog posts where we discussed the top 5 Servo Drive manufacturers in detail. For now, here is a brief overview of some of the most trusted and widely adopted servo motor brands in the industrial automation space:
- Siemens: Siemens is known for seamless integration with PLCs and industrial networks. They offer servo systems like the SINAMICS and SIMOTICS series, popular in complex manufacturing lines and process-driven environments.
- Mitsubishi Electric: Mitsubishi’s MR-J series delivers high-speed, high-accuracy motion control. They are often used in packaging, material handling, and precision applications.
- Yaskawa: A global leader in motion control, Yaskawa’s Sigma series is valued for fast response times, compact design, and reliable operation. Their servos are common in robotics, machine tools, and high-speed assembly.
- Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation): Allen-Bradley’s Kinetix range integrates seamlessly with Rockwell’s Logix platform. These servos are favored by OEMs looking for a scalable and unified control system.
- Schneider Electric: Schneider’s Lexium line includes servo drives and motors used in bottling lines, printing equipment, and other automated machinery. Their systems perform well in mid-to-high complexity applications.
Selecting the Right Servo for Your Setup
Choosing the right servo motor involves balancing performance, compatibility, and reliability. Consider factors like load characteristics, duty cycle, environment, required resolution, and integration with your control system.
At Mizen Automation, we assist businesses in selecting and implementing servo motors that fit their automation goals. Whether you’re building a new line or upgrading existing infrastructure, we provide support from selection to integration.
Browse our servo motor range or contact our team to speak with an automation specialist.
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