Gearmotors are an integral part of a power transmission system that regulate the torque and speed of the system. You can buy a DC or AC gearmotor, a brushless or brushed gearmotor, a right angle or a parallel shaft gear motor as per your needs.

For example, for an explosive environment, a brushless gearmotor is a better option than a brushed gearmotor. Depending on the torque required, you can buy a bevel gearmotor, a worm gearmotor or a helical gearmotor. For example, a worm gearmotor is the best option for high torque requirements.

Some of the important parameters you must consider before purchasing a gearmotor are:

1. Operating torque and speed rating of the gearmotor
2. Shock and vibration rating of the gearmotor
3. Type of voltage supply to the gearmotor: AC or DC
4. Diameters of driver and driven shafts for the gearmotor

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy gearmotors from reputable manufacturers

Once you have identified your requirements, buy a gearmotor that is most suitable for your application. For example, if your transmission system should consume less space, you must select a gearmotor that is compact, yet provides a variation of speed and torque as per application.

I recommend: MicroMo Electronics designs and manufactures high precision electromechanical drive systems including miniature gearmotors and DC motors. RAE Corp. is another manufacturer that supplies various types of gearmotors such as planetary, parallel shaft and right angle gearmotors. Motor Technology offers DC fractional gearmotors. Rexnord, a manufacturer of power transmission and conveying components, provides compact size helical gearmotors.

Buy gearmotors from a retailer

If you want to compare gearmotors offered by different manufacturers, their specifications and prices, then buying a gearmotor from a retailer is a better option.

I recommend: Galco Industrial Electronics, a retailer for automation industry components, provides gearmotors by reputable manufacturers. ClickAutomation is another retailer of automation products offering DC gearmotors. You can also obtain a list of gearmotor manufacturers on Zycon.

Buy a specialized gearmotor

Purchase a specialty or customized gearmotor for non-standard applications that require very high or low ranges of torque or speed.

I recommend: Groschopp, a custom manufacturer of gearmotors, provides different models of fractional and subfractional motors. DieQua Corp. manufactures inline and right angle helical gearmotors that suit high torque, small size applications. Emerson Power Transmission is a supplier of customized gearing solutions to fit extreme gearmotor applications such as marine oil well equipment. MET MOTORS provides low torque, small gearmotors. Dumore Corp. offers gearmotors starting from a 12-volt gearmotor to a 230-volt gearmotor with a range of gear ratios.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Ensure proper lubrication of the gearmotor and its components, as lubrication affects efficiency of the gearmotor.
• •  Install appropriate brakes and clutches for your gearmotor.