Wherever there is motion, an encoder is sure to be found. Encoders may not be as glamorous as the products they go in, but they are critical in today’s complex and sophisticated motion control systems. Because there are so many types of motion control systems, there are a variety of types and styles of encoders. […]
Motion Selection Guides
How to size and select bellows couplings for motion applications
Electrodeposited bellows couplings are commonly used in motion-control applications requiring precision but also having shaft misalignment. If your application fits this description, it’s key to understand the parameters that dictate the optimum bellows coupling for a given axis. Here are a few of the key considerations for selecting a bellows coupling. 1. Torque Determine the […]
How to select rotary bearings: A design engineering guide
Rolling bearings in rotating machinery support shaft loads, reduce friction with rolling elements, and provide shaft location and system rigidity. Whether a bearing will be suitable for an application will hinge, in part, on the particular application requirements for the bearing and the bearing’s design features and associated capabilities. When specifying bearings, designers must consider […]
How to size and select a dc motor: A motion engineer’s guide
There are many motor choices on the market today, from heavy-duty AC motors to tiny DC brushless and stepper motors. To select the right motor for the application, users must have a full understanding of the application parameters, including power, speed, torque, physical size, efficiency, lifetime expectations, and other requirements. There have literally been books […]
How to select a cable carrier: A motion engineer’s guide
Selecting the right kind of cable carrier for an application starts with a few simple guidelines. The most important points to consider are the specifics of the application. These include the length of travel, the number of cables or hoses, the size and weight of the cables, the required speed and acceleration and environmental factors […]
How to select an ac motor: A motion engineer’s guide
AC motors are among the simplest of motors amid the common choices for motion control systems. There are a few basic criteria for selecting an AC motor. These involve common variables such as the operating speed and load torque, in addition to the power supply voltage and frequency. First of all, calculate the operating speed. […]
