Electric motors – find manufacturers and suppliers

Electric motors are machines that convert electrical energy into mechanical energy, usually a rotary motion.

This happens through the interaction of magnetic fields and electric currents. Electric motors are used in numerous areas, from household appliances and electric vehicles to industrial machines and tools.

Below you will find how the different types work, an overview of the areas of application for electric motors and their advantages:

How 3-phase AC motors work:

These motors run on three-phase alternating current.

Stator: The fixed part of the motor that generates a magnetic field. In most cases, the magnetic field is generated by coils through which an electric current flows.
Rotor: The rotating part of the motor, which rotates in the stator by alternating the polarity of the magnetic field. This alternating polarity, a rotating field generated in the stator by constantly changing voltage in the coils, causes the rotor to rotate due to constantly changing attractive and repulsive forces.

There are 2 types of three-phase motors:

Asynchronous motors (induction motors): The rotor rotates more slowly than the rotating field of the stator, which makes the motor robust and low-maintenance.

Synchronous motors: The rotor rotates at the same frequency as the magnetic field, which enables precise control.

Functionality of alternating current motors (AC motors):

These motors run on single-phase alternating current.

In principle, they consist of the same parts as the three-phase motor. However, the rotating field must be generated by further constructive measures, such as the use of a capacitor.

How direct current motors (DC motors) work:

These motors run on direct current.

Stator: The stationary part of the motor that generates a magnetic field using either permanent magnets or excitation coils.
Rotor: The rotating part of the motor, which rotates in the stator by alternating the polarity of the magnetic field. In contrast to the AC motor, this alternating polarity is not generated in the stator but in the rotor. The change in current direction in the coils wound on the rotor is achieved by the commutator (pole inverter) consisting of slip rings and brushes.

Areas of application for electric motors:

1. Industry and production:
Electric motors play a crucial role in the automation and operation of industrial machinery.
In production systems, e.g. conveyor belts, electric motors transport materials and products.
In manufacturing, they perform precise motion sequences. They move robot arms, for example.
In the chemical and oil and gas industries, electric motors are used to drive pumps and compressors for transporting liquids and gases.
Milling, drilling and grinding machines in workshops and factories are driven by electric motors.

2. Electromobility:
The automotive industry is increasingly relying on electric motors, particularly in the development of electric vehicles (EVs).
Electric cars are driven by electric motors powered by batteries.
public transportation such as buses, streetcars and trains use electric motors for emission-free operation.
Smaller electric motors power personal transportation such as electric bicycles and e-scooters.

3. Household appliances:
Almost every household contains electric motors that perform various tasks.
Motors drive the drums for washing and drying.
Electric motors generate the suction power in vacuum cleaners.
Kitchen appliances such as blenders, coffee grinders and other appliances use small electric motors.
Motors operate the fans and compressors in air conditioning systems and ventilators.

4. Renewable energies:
Electric motors and generators also play a central role in the production and conversion of renewable energy.
The rotor of a wind turbine turns a generator, which functions as a reverse electric motor.
Current-driven turbines in hydroelectric power plants drive generators to produce electricity.
Electric motors move solar panels to align them optimally with the sun. (Tracking systems)

5. Construction and heavy industry:
Electric motors control lifting mechanisms and conveyor systems in excavators and cranes.
Drills, grinders and saws use electric motors to provide high performance with low weight.
Large electric motors drive conveyor belts and other transportation equipment in mining.

6. Medical devices:
Electric motors provide adjustable positions and propulsion in hospital beds and wheelchairs.
Motors are used in MRI machines, CT scanners and other medical devices.
Motorized prostheses use electric motors to enable movement.

7. Aerospace:
In aviation and aerospace, electric motors are used in specialized applications.
Smaller electric motors drive the rotors in drones, which are responsible for lift and control.
Electric motors are used satellites and spacecraft to power various mechanisms, such as solar panel orientation.

8. Leisure and hobby:
Many toys, such as remote-controlled cars or motorized building sets, are equipped with electric motors.
Treadmills, ergometers and other equipment use motors to generate resistance and movement.

9. Infrastructure:
Infrastructure systems use electric motors to maintain operation.
Electric motors are responsible for driving elevators and escalators in cabins and steps.
Pumps in sewage treatment plants and water supply systems use electric motors.

10. Communication and IT devices:
Electric motors are also used in technological devices.
Small electric motors rotate the storage disks in HDDs.
Electric motors move the print heads and paper feeds in printers.

Advantages of electric motors:

• High efficiency: electric motors convert a high proportion of the energy supplied into mechanical energy.
• Environmentally friendly: No direct emissions if they are powered by renewable energy.
• Low maintenance: Compared to combustion engines, electric motors require less maintenance as they have fewer moving parts.

Electric motors are an indispensable part of modern technology. Their applications range from industry and household appliances to mobility and the energy sector. They offer advantages such as efficiency, reliability and low emissions, making them a key technology in today's and tomorrow's development.

Here are the most important criteria to consider when buying electric motors:

When purchasing an electric motor, there are several important factors to consider to ensure that the motor meets the requirements of the specific application.

• The electric motor must be adapted to the specific requirements of the application.
• What mechanical work should the motor perform? The motor power is specified in kilowatts (kW) or horsepower (hp).
• The torque (in Newton meters, Nm) describes the rotating force that the motor must deliver.
• The speed (in revolutions per minute, rpm) must meet the requirements of the application. Some applications require high speeds, while others require lower speeds.
• Is the motor intended for continuous operation (S1 operation) or intermittent operation?
• There are different motor types and the correct type depends on the application.
• Direct current (DC) motor: Often used in smaller applications, vehicles and appliances. It offers good controllability but requires a direct current source.
• Alternating current (AC) motor: Used in most industrial applications. There are two main types:
• Asynchronous motors (induction motors): Robust and low maintenance, suitable for a wide range of industrial applications.
• Synchronous motors: Ideal for precise control, such as in machine tools or robotic applications.
• Servomotors: For precise controls with high accuracy and repeatable movements.
• Stepper motors: Commonly used in machines with precise positioning requirements, such as 3D printers.
• The motor must be compatible with the available power source, e.g. 230V, 400V or other voltage requirements, for both direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC).
• Consider the efficiency of the motor. A highly efficient motor (e.g. IE3 or IE4) can save costs in operation in the long term.
• For AC motors in particular, the mains frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz) must be taken into account.
• The physical size of the motor must fit into the available space. This is particularly important in compact machines or mobile devices.
• Make sure that the motor fits the planned mounting configuration (foot mounting, flange mounting, etc.).
• The motor must be able to withstand the environmental requirements.
• Is the motor suitable for operation in extreme temperatures? Depending on the area of application, the operating temperature limits must be observed.
• The protection class must be selected depending on the environment (e.g. dusty, wet or corrosive areas). Frequently used classes are
• IP54: Protection against dust and splash water.
• IP65: Completely dust-tight and protection against water jets.
• Explosion protection (ATEX): In hazardous environments, such as in the chemical industry, explosion-proof motors may need to be used.
• More efficient motors are often more expensive, but save energy and costs in the long term. Efficiency classes such as E2, IE3 and IE4 provide information about energy consumption. The higher the class, the more efficiently the motor works.
• Some applications require a soft start or stop function, which is achieved with frequency converters or special starting controls.
• Many modern motors require the ability to vary the speed. This often requires a frequency inverter.
• Some motors come with integrated controls, which is useful when precision or complex movements are required (e.g. servomotors).
• Long service life and easy servicing are key factors in minimizing downtime.
• Some motors have maintenance-free bearings, while others require regular lubrication.
• Find out about the recommended maintenance intervals and the availability of spare parts.
• DC motors are available with or without brushes. Brushless motors require less maintenance.
• The purchase cost of a motor should be weighed up against its operating costs (energy consumption, maintenance, service life). Cheaper motors often have a lower efficiency and can cause higher operating costs.
• Motors sold in the EU must comply with CE standards.
• ISO and IEC standards ensure that the motor meets international standards for safety and efficiency.
• Depending on the application and environment, the noise level of the motor may play a role, especially in environments where noise must be minimized, such as offices or residential buildings.
• It is important to ensure that spare parts are readily available and that good technical support or service is available for the motor, especially for complex or specialized motors.

When purchasing an electric motor, performance requirements, efficiency, control options and environmental conditions should be carefully considered. Long-term energy consumption and ease of maintenance also play a role. A well-chosen motor can increase productivity, save energy and extend the life of equipment.

Electric motors can be purchased from various suppliers. Comprehensive information about manufacturers and suppliers of Electric motors from all over the world can be found on Exportpages.