What are Gear Motors Used For?

Electric Gear motors are used in applications that require high output torque and lower output shaft rotational speed, especially where space and available power are limited. This describes a wide range of common equipment applications across multiple industries. From automotive wiper and window motors to hospital beds and patient lifts, robots to conveyor systems, automatic door operators to frozen beverage mixers, gear motors are critical to the overall performance of equipment that we depend on every day.

What Is a Gear Motor?

Simply put, a gear motor is any electric motor coupled with a gear train. Gear motors use either AC (Alternating Current) or DC (Direct Current) power. In most cases, the gear reducer is intended to multiply the available output torque without increasing the power consumption of the motor while maintaining a compact size. The trade off for torque multiplication is a proportional reduction in the speed of the output shaft, and reduced overall efficiency. By utilizing the proper gear technology and ratio for specific applications, the optimal output and speed profiles can be obtained along with the perfect mechanical fit to unlock the maximum value of your OEM equipment.

What Applications DO NOT Use Gear Motors?

Due to the flexibility and widespread use of electric gear motors, it is actually easier to explore applications that DO NOT use them. Any application that requires high shaft speed and relatively low torque will not benefit from the use of a gear motor. This includes most fan, pump, and scanning applications. In these cases, the speed of the motor’s shaft rotation is the most important factor. Applications requiring maximum efficiency, ease of back driving, minimal audible noise, or highly precise velocity or torque control may also benefit from a motor-only solution.

Contact Power Electric for Specific Gear Motor Information

At Power Electric, our motor experts are here to help you understand your power transmission options. Whether you need the right motor to connect to your existing gear train or need help creating the optimal gear motor for applications such as ice making equipment, food & hot or cold beverage equipment, or material handling equipment, we can help. Contact a member of our sales team at 763-383-6936 or connect with us online.