Gearmotors

Gearmotors are made up of a motor, gear, and bearings enclosed in a housing. They are frequently used in applications that require a high amount of force (torque) at low speeds. A gearmotor powered by AC current performs many tasks related to high power, such as lifting, jacking, and robotics. Brackets, covers, and extension cables are used to mount, protect, and power gearmotors.

The primary function within a gearmotor is handled by the gear unit and its stages. These features transfer the force of the motor from its input to its output. As a result, the gear motor functions as a speed and torque converter.

Power transmission products are for speed control! They typically slow down motor rotational speeds while transmitting greater torques than an electric motor can provide by itself in most applications. Considering this, the design of the product will determine whether a gearmotor is suitable for light or medium loads and for short or long power-applied hours.

Reduction ratios or gear ratios refer to how the power transmission device steps down or steps up the motor's incoming speed (known as the input speed). Another measure of a gear motor's performance is the maximum torque it has on the output side. Torque is measured in Newton meters (Nm), and it refers to the force of the gear motor and the load that it can move with that force.

The primary factor in determining the type of gearmotor is the shaft configuration of the gear unit. We offer three different designs such as right-angle gearmotors, parallel-shaft gearmotors, and concentric units.

The easy answer is--EVERYWHERE! Sumitomo units can be found in the parcel handling industry, mining industry, food & beverage industry and more. Anything that needs to be moved-- 9/10 is powered by some type of gearmotor.

In general terms, the speeds are 1750 and 1165 RPM. The selection tables in our catalog are based on 1750, 1165, 870, 580, and 50 RPM. When non-standard input speeds are used, the kilowatt (or horsepower) and torque ratings also vary.

The standard ratings for Cyclo® BBB4 are based on 10-hour daily service under conditions of uniform loads (equivalent to AGMA service factor 1.0). By following the product selection process outlined in our catalog, you will determine and apply the Service Factors to compensate for the severe operating conditions.

To select the proper gearmotor for your application, you need to know: 

• Application: type of driven machine
• Hours of operation per day
• Motor horsepower (HP) and speed (RPM)
• Mounting position
• Ambient environment, temperature and humidity
• Special environment factors or operational requirements.

The benefits of using a gearmotor include:

• Increased torque output
• Improved speed control and precision
• Reduced noise and vibration
• Smaller footprint compared to separate motor and gearbox
• Simplified installation and maintenance
• Greater efficiency in power transmission

There are several types of gearmotors available, including:

• Helical gearmotors
• Planetary gearmotors
• Worm gearmotors
• Bevel gearmotors
• Cycloidal gearmotors

To choose the right gearmotor for your application, you should consider factors such as the required torque and speed, environmental conditions, space limitations, and efficiency requirements. It's also important to consider the specific type of gearmotor that would be best suited for your application.

The main difference between a gearmotor and a gearbox is that a gearmotor is a combination of a motor and a gearbox, whereas a gearbox is a standalone mechanical device used to transmit power between a motor and a driven load.

Environmental considerations when using a gear motor include factors such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to corrosive substances. Proper sealing and ventilation can help protect the gear motor from these conditions.

The lifespan of a gearmotor depends on several factors, such as the type and quality of the motor and gearbox components, the operating conditions, and the maintenance schedule. With proper care and maintenance, gearmotors can last for many years.

Safety precautions when working with gearmotors include following proper lockout/tagout procedures, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, and ensuring that the motor is properly grounded and secured before starting any maintenance or repair work.

When selecting a gearmotor supplier or manufacturer, it's important to consider factors such as the company's reputation, product quality and reliability, customer service and support, and pricing.

Yes, Sumitomo now offers Invertek Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs). The Invertek Optidrive inverters provide advanced motor control with ease of setup and operation. They are also capable of operating in some of the harshest environments thanks to the IP66 / NEMA 4X-rated enclosures available across the E3 and P2 ranges. Learn more about them here.

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A DC gear motor is commonly used for applications requiring precise speed control or frequent starting and stopping because they use direct current (DC). Other applications include automotive, robotics, and medical equipment. There are several advantages to using a DC gear motor over an AC gear motor, including:

• High torque and power output
• Precise speed control
• Good starting and stopping capabilities
• Compact size and lightweight design

The disadvantages of a DC gear motor include higher costs, more complex control systems, and higher maintenance requirements.

An AC gear motor is an electrical device that uses alternating current (AC) to drive them. The drive is often used in conveyor systems, pumps, and compressors, all of which require constant speed. Compared to other types of gearmotors, a AC gear motor have the following advantages:

• High reliability and durability
• Low maintenance requirements
• Smooth and quiet operation
• Energy efficiency

While an AC gear motor has some advantages, it also has some disadvantages, such as its limited speed control and tendency to overheat at high loads. It is essential to take these factors into account when choosing an AC gear motor versus a DC gear motor.

In 2019, Sumitomo Drive Technologies acquired the Lafert Group, a European leader in the design and production of electric motors and drivers customized for industrial use. Lafert offers High Performance (HP), a new generation of PM (Permanent Magnet) Synchronous Motors, which achieve IE5 Super Premium Efficiency level and are very compact.

It combines the electrical design of Brushless Servomotors with the mechanical design of AC Induction Motors. Thus, the compact motor is primarily designed for HVAC applications such as fans, compressors, and blowers, where there is an emphasis on reducing the motor's weight and size.

In order to size the right gearmotor for your application, you need to consider several critical factors. Optimal performance and reliability are dependent on many factors, from load requirements and duty cycle to motor overload capacity and gear ratio. During this section, we will examine the factors you must consider when selecting and sizing gearmotors to ensure they can handle loads, improve efficiency, and withstand environmental conditions. Making the right choice for your specific needs requires taking these factors into account.