Are you looking to purchase an electric stepper motor to use as a component in other electronics because of its rotational mechanism? You might also be aware that not every electronic would function by following a rotational motion. Besides, they will eliminate the chances of an electric motor succeeding.
That is why the Nema 17 stepper motor was launched into the market. It can be used in any electronic device, even the ones that don't follow rotational motion to produce electricity. However, most people still need help understanding the stepper motor working principle, which is significant in convincing them about the product's benefits.
But before we indulge in a detailed discussion about NEMA 17 stepper motors, let us first understand the product by going through its basics.
What is the NEMA 17 stepper motor?
It has a 1.8-degree step angle, equal to 200 steps per revolution. While the stepper motor is in function, every phase of it can crave 12 A of current at the rate of 12 V. Due to such operation; the stepper motor can hold 3.2 kg cm torque at the very least. Moreover, it has 6 color-coded wires featuring a bare lead in every one of them.
Working principle of stepper motor
The stepper motor works behind the principle of a DC motor, ensuring the motor's whole rotation is divided into equal steps. You can easily judge the stepper motor's position without any position sensor's help. It is designed to hold in a unique phase until and unless it calculates the application's speed and torque.
Now, it would do so only if terminals are applied with DC voltage when it comes to the movement. Whenever some pulse is inputted into the stepper motor, it could result in spinning and, thereby, production of the energy required for the machine to function. The stepper motors also consist of electromagnets that continuously revolve around the motor’s central iron rotor.
The primary purpose of the electromagnet is to power motor shaft rotation electromagnetically along with gear teeth. The electromagnets can also be turned off at will, resulting in the next one starting to rotate the motor. It is the working principle of the stepper motor, which goes through an entire rotation while completing the exact steps for generating the torque for the inputted machine.
Key Features of NEMA 17 stepper motor
One of the most common features of the NEMA 17 stepper motor is its ability to convert the current into torque after completing a full rotation.
It can last for a more extended period due to its high durability.
More importantly, it handles all the work with utmost precision each time it is called into action.
The stepper motor is not massive; instead, it is medium-sized, making it easy to handle or move from one place to another.
The NEMA 17 stepper motor is considered an ideal replacement for all the other bipolar motors on the market.
Specifications of NEMA 17 stepper motor
Weight- 350g
Current- 1.2A per coil
Angle- 1.8 degree
Output shaft- 5mm diameter
Wire- 4 m with lead- 8 inch
Voltage- 4V
Motor length- 1.54 inches
Inductance- 2.8mH per coil
Length of the lead- 30cm
Operation voltage rating- 12V DC
Phases- 4
Phase resistance- 3.3 per coil
Operating temperature- -10 degrees to 40 degrees.
Measurement of motor control- 42.3 mm x 48mm.
These are all the NEMA 17 motor specifications which, if known from the beginning, will help you make a better decision on whether to purchase the motor.
NEMA 17 stepper motor's Application
A stepper motor can be used in various ways, which we will take a look at one by one in the list below: -
The stepper motor can be used in computerized systems because it is easily controlled digitally using an input pulse.
Because of the unique stepper motor specifications can be used in tape drives, floppy discs, 3D printers, electric watches, and many more. Moreover, a stepper motor is also used in robotics for functioning new-age automated robots.
It plays a significant role in textile industries by innovating manufacturing processes and integrated circuit mechanisms.
The stepper motors also play a massive role in spacecraft launches as they are installed in their launchpads.
Due to its microwatt capability, a stepper motor is also used in various wristwatches along with electric watches.
It can also be used in different machines that calculate the kilo-watt current.
The stepper motor significantly impacts the motor driver, hard drives, laser cutters, linear actuators, and CNC machines.
Conclusion
After going through this article, you may wonder if the stepper motor's working principle and construction are pretty complex compared to the other specific types of motors in the market. However, it is different here in this article. We have tried our best to explain the working principle, basics, and application of the stepper motor in simple words from start to finish.
None of the other motors will be able to match the stepper motor's versatility, durability, and accuracy, even if they try their best. A stepper motor might be ideal if you are searching for a precise and efficient mechanism.
FAQs
How much current does NEMA 17 stepper motor use?
A fully functional NEMA 17 stepper motor consumes 1.5 A to 1.8 A current per phase along with 4 volts and 3 to 8 mH inductance per phase.
How long does a stepper motor last?
A NEMA 17 stepper motor is said to work correctly for 4.8 months, which means approximately 10000 hours without showing any signs of slowing down.
Why is it called a stepper motor?
The NEMA 17 is called a stepper motor because it uses electricity within each pulse to ensure the motor keeps functioning while being used.
Where is the stepper motor primarily used?
It is mainly used in floppy disk drives, image scanners, slot machines, 3D printers, etc.
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