Three simple steps to select the appropriate Air Motor

07 December 2023

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If you are considering the use of a pneumatic motor, you are on the right track! The next step is to identify the pneumatic motor that suits your needs.
In order to do so, please follow this easy three stages process in order to find your future motor: 

 

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1. Identify the context of use: 

Pneumatic motors lend themselves to various specific applications.  The first question you therefore need to ask yourself is: In which environment will it run?


# In humid environments, the pneumatic motor withstands corrosion and only requires an air filtration and lubrication system to ensure that the pressurized air injected into the motor is clean and dry.


# Unlike an electric motor, with a constant air pressure of 6 bars, the pneumatic motor does not suffer from water infiltration. The use of stainless steel for the motor parts in contact with water and the installation of waterproof seals are sufficient to prevent the risk of corrosion. 


" As for very high temperatures, the pneumatic motor is the best alternative, as it cools during operation. Therefore, it can be used up to 130 degrees without the need for oversizing.


# In the nuclear sector, pneumatic motors eliminate the risk of interference with radiation due to the absence of electricity. The air used can be drawn and expelled in a non-contaminated area to limit any spread of contamination.


#The air motor does not overheat, doesn’t make sparks, and doesn’t need the installation of a protected electric network. This is why they are the best alternative to electrical motors in Atex situations.

 
Once you have identified the environment in which to use your pneumatic motor, you need to determine the torque required for the task.

2. Your application will help us choose the appropriate torque for the motor:

 

Now that you are seriously considering the use of a pneumatic motor, focus on the required torque. The power of a motor depends on its torque and operating speed.
Next, determine whether, for your application, you need to pay attention to starting torque or stall torque. The torque (N.m) corresponds to the force required by your application.


If you want your motor to stop when a certain torque is reached, for example, for any tightening applications where the motor automatically stops when the piece is screwed, you need to determine a stall torque.


On the other hand, you need to determine the starting torque, for example, in lifting applications (e.g., with a winch or hoist). 
This distinction is crucial to ensure optimal performance in specific scenarios. We are available to provide advice in case of any doubts.

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3. Calculate de power

 

To determine the motor power, given the torque, we need to know the useful rotational speed. At what speed do we want our motor to operate (under standard conditions)?

The speed of a pneumatic motor is not constant; it is proportional to the torque applied to the motor.


That is, with the nominal torque of the application, a defined pressure, and excluding any specific constraints. As mentioned earlier, unlike electric motors, pneumatic motors provide real power without the need for oversizing.

Just consider the following information: air pressure and flow rate, the required torque (C), and the desired speed (V):

Pneumatic motors need a pressure of 3 to 6 bars for optimal operation. Power depends on the air pressure.
It is essential to know the torque required for your application to select the appropriate pneumatic motor.


At what speed do we want our motor to rotate under "normal" conditions, meaning with the nominal torque of the application, the defined pressure, and excluding any specific constraints?

 

Speed (S), Torque (T) and Power (P) are related through the following equation : 


This approach ensures efficient use without the risk of motor overheating. 

 


 

By following these three steps, you will choose a pneumatic motor perfectly suited to your specific needs. Having a clear idea of what the pneumatic motor needs to accomplish will help you, and help us understand the speed and torque requirements. 


Our team is available to provide you with personalized consultation.

For more in-depth information, download our comprehensive guide on Air motors."

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Damien Coissieux
Damien Coissieux

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