Stepper Motor Types  |  Closed-Loop Stepper  |  Performance and Operation

Stepper motors are a common choice for motion control applications that require high torque at low speeds, good holding torque, and relatively straightforward operation. And the basic premise of stepper motor construction gives them inherently high resolution and accurate positioning capabilities, making them suitable for open-loop operation.

In this session of Motion Control Classroom, we explain the differences between various stepper motor designs – including permanent magnet, variable reluctance, and hybrid types – and the performance characteristics of each. For example, you’ll learn which stepper motor design is best for high holding torque, which design eliminates detent torque, and when to consider a linear stepper motor.

You’ll also gain insights into best practices for selecting and operating stepper motors and how to choose the best drive scheme for your application. We also go in-depth on microstepping – a popular method for producing smoother motion and increasing resolution. And finally, you’ll learn when it makes sense to use a stepper motor in a closed-loop control system.

Senior Editor, Design World

Overview  •  Linear  •  Hybrid  •  Pole  •  Count

Differences between permanent magnet, variable reluctance, and hybrid types

Stepper motors are commonly used in linear motion applications for their precise positioning capabilities and good holding torque.

What are linear stepper motors?

Like most linear motors, a linear stepper motor is essentially a variation of the rotary design, cut radially and laid out flat.

FAQ: What are hybrid stepper motors?

Hybrid stepper motors combine aspects of both permanent magnet (PM) and variable reluctance (VR) stepper motors.

FAQ: What is pole count and why does it matter?

Simply defined, a pole is a north or south magnetic field of force that is generated by a permanent magnet or current passing through a coil of wire.

No motor subtype satisfies all applications, as all have their own benefits and drawbacks. Even so, axes that need incremental strokes often use dc motors that are either stepper or servomotors. 

Stepper motors are inherently open-loop devices. They don’t require feedback because each pulse of current delivered by the drive equals one step of the motor (or a fraction of a step, in the case of microstepping). And with small step sizes, or step angles, the motor’s position can be determined very precisely without the need for a feedback device and complicated control schemes.

So, if a stepper motor’s position can be determined in an open-loop system, why would you add the cost and complexity of closed-loop control to a stepper motor?

Torque  •  Inertia  •  Gearing  •  Output

What stepper motor type is best for high torque?

Stepper motors are commonly recognized for their holding torque, which allows them to hold a load at standstill.

FAQ: How do stepper motors handle inertia mismatch?

Inertia mismatch is the difference between the inertia of the system and inertia of the stepper motor.

Why use a gearbox with a stepper motor?

Stepper motors are known for their accurate positioning capabilities and high torque delivery at low speeds

FAQ: What kind of torque can I get out of a stepper motor versus other options?

Stepper-motor output torque depends on stepper-motor type; how many poles it has; how fast it runs; and the type of drive supplying electrical power.

A stepper drive is the driver circuit that controls how the stepper motor operates. Stepper drives work by sending current through various phases in pulses to the stepper motor. There are four types: wave drives (also called one-phase-on drives), two-phase on, one-two phase-on drives and microstepping drives.

Wave or one-phase-on drives work with only one phase turned on at a time. Consider the illustration. When the drive energizes pole A (a south pole) shown in green, it attracts the north pole of the rotor. Then when the drive energizes B and switches A off, the rotor rotates 90° and this continues as the drive energizes each pole one at a time.

Torque margin is the amount of extra torque capacity a stepper motor has to ensure successful operation without stepper motor stalls. A sufficient torque margin is critical when a motion design incorporates stepper motors for motion, as in many cases there’s no correction of motion if the motor is temporarily overloaded.

Schneider Electric Motion USA is a manufacturer of motion control components for automation equipment. The company is a proven leader in innovative motion control solutions for stepper motors and electronic controls, and the world leader in integrated motor drives with the MDrive® product line.

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