A linear motor is an electric motor where the shaft doesn’t spin but creates power by thrusting in and out. These motors are available in three different varieties: lead screw, solenoid, and stepper. Learn more about the types of linear motors and the SmartDrives offered by Invention House.
Lead screw motors utilize a threaded shaft to generate linear movement in machinery. As the motor rotates, the connected screw rotates the threads which move along the shaft. The lead screw is one of the most commonly used types of linear motors because they have a high speed, provide enhanced precision, and direct drive without the need for gears or other mechanical components. These motors are commonly used in robotic arms or medical equipment.
Solenoid linear motors generate power that moves the load along its axis using an electromagnetic field. The moving part is suspended in the stator with springs and when energized, moves in or out depending on the polarities that energize it. If an alternating current is utilized, then the shaft will vibrate at the frequency of the alternating current.
Speakers are a common type of solenoid linear motor. However, they don’t contain a shaft. Instead, the moving part is connected directly to the speaker cone. Other applications of solenoid motors include industrial shakers to move powdered materials and small parks.
Stepper motors use a series of electromagnets to move the load in a linear fashion. When current is applied to one of the magnets, it creates an electromagnetic field that moves the load along the shaft. These motors have a stator that resembles a flat rectangle with teeth. The moving part can be permanent magnets or another steel rectangle, and the stator is energized with two- or three-phase power so the teeth progressively move the north pole down the motor’s length, dragging the moving part with it. This type of motor is commonly used when precise positioning is required, such as in printing machinery and robotic arms. Stepper motors have high accuracy and low backlash, making them ideal for applications where exact positioning is necessary.
Single-phase variable frequency drives are commonly used to power AC induction motors, such as compressors, transform drives, pumps, and fans. However, these items must be powered by a motor that can be controlled with accuracy and efficiency. Using fixed-speed components makes it challenging to dictate the speed and leads to wear and tear.
Linear motors have become a popular choice for single-phase drives because they offer the following advantages:
One of the biggest advantages of using linear motors in single-phase VFDs is that they operate at a high rate of efficiency. Traditional motors have rotating parts that create friction and cause components to become less efficient.
Linear motors feature a moving part that travels along a path that reduces friction; this creates a more efficient product and lowers energy consumption.
Single-phase VFDs must be able to control the speed and torque of motors to accurately optimize their performance and enhance energy efficiency. Linear motors can accelerate and decelerate in a controlled manner to provide a smoother and safer operation. This precise common is ideal for applications that require careful movement or positioning, such as CNC machines or robotics.
One problem with using traditional motors is that they supply a fixed power output, meaning they deliver a specific amount of power to the load at all times.
Linear motors offer varying levels of power based on the application; this allows for greater flexibility and versatility. This is especially useful in tasks that have variable loads or require different speed changes.
Check out our white pages for some helpful tips on troubleshooting common problems.
Using off-the-shelf VFDs to power your equipment can create problems because the equipment may lack the durability to withstand challenging conditions. Also, these drives feature space-consuming components, including:
Invention House understands the important role VFDs play in various processes and offers customized single-phase drives with universal input. Our innovative equipment reduces external components and connections and enables you to maintain operations while maximizing space. Invention House offers two single-phase VFD options:
Our SPD-2230 single-phase motor drive is a conformal-coated VFD built on an aluminum flange chassis. With functional programming, a serial interface, and a connector-base input/output for easy factory assembly, the SPD-2230 is ideal for cryogenic compressors and traditional and linear motors. Other specifications include:
Invention House designed and built the SPD-500 single-phase OEM motor drive specifically for extreme conditions. This VFD meets all mil-spec requirements and is ideal for tent heaters and blowers. This innovative drive senses altitude changes and automatically adjusts power to maintain a constant CFM. Featuring a connect-based input/output port, the SPD-500 is easy to install and has the following specifications:
The Invention House team believes your challenge is our mission. We leverage our two decades of experience to help you enhance productivity and efficiency with our American-made VFDs. Along with our single-phase drives, we also offer 3-phase and 400 Hz motor drives that work in challenging conditions. Contact us today to learn more about our innovative equipment.
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Which Variable Frequency Drive Is Best For You?