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Top Servo Drive & Motor Manufacturers

April 25, 2023 Brian Diver

In manufacturing, precision and accuracy are key factors that can make or break a product. This is where servo motors and drives are essential in operating machines and equipment.

This article will review major servo drive and motor manufacturers, exploring their products, technology, and history.

servo drive manufacturers

What Is a Servo Motor?

A servo motor is an electric motor used for precise and accurate motion control. A feedback system helps it to maintain a specific position, torque, or speed.

Offering high strength for their size, servo motors are convenient and useful because they have built-in control circuitry.

What Is a Servo Drive?

A servo drive is an electronic device that controls the operation of a servo motor. It provides power to the motor and uses feedback signals to adjust the motor's speed and position.

Servo motors and servo drives work together to control the movement and speed of machinery, providing the necessary accuracy and consistency for manufacturing.

8 Major Servo Motor and Servo Drive Manufacturers

A complete list of servo motor and drive manufacturers would include a wide range of companies. All offer products that deliver the precision and control that servo drives and motors are known for. But only a few names truly stand out. Here's a roundup of some of the top servo drive and motor manufacturers.

1. Mitsubishi Electric

With roots that go back to the 1870s shipping industry, Mitsubishi has a long and storied history in Japan. Although the name is more associated with car manufacturing in the U.S., Mitsubishi Electric produces control solutions for numerous industries, including automotive, food and beverage, and material handling.

As a leading servo motor manufacturer, Mitsubishi Electric offers options like the HC-SFS102, which provides medium inertia and medium capacity, and the HC-KFS73, which operates at 3,000 RPM.

Its servo drives include the:

2. Yaskawa Electric

Founded in 1915, Yaskawa Electric began offering super synchronous motors in the 1930s and 1940s. It serves industries like additive manufacturing, packaging, and rubber and plastics.

Yaskawa's SGMG-05A2AB servo motor has a straight shaft with a key, while its SGDH-10AE servo drive is a Type Sigma II. As one of the top servo drive manufacturers, the company also offers the SGDV-2R8A01A, which operates at 50/60 HZ, and the SGDH-04AE, which handles input voltages of 110/230 AND 480.

3. FANUC

One of the newer companies on our list, FANUC, was founded in 1972. It's known as the world's largest supplier of industrial robots, but it also offers a robust line of servo motors and servo drives.

FANUC's servo motors include the A06B-0227-B300, which features a tapered shaft, and the A06B-0075-B303, which has a motor taper brake. The company offers servo drives like the A06B-6089-H105, a 3-phase device well-suited for CNC applications.

4. Allen-Bradley

Founded in 1903, Allen-Bradley is now a brand owned by Rockwell Automation. The original company pioneered resistors and PLCs and became an important name among servo drive manufacturers. Allen-Bradley servo drives are designed for the most demanding industrial applications.

Models include the 2098-DSD-030X-DN, which has a DeviceNet interface and uses a 12/24 VDC supply, and the 2098-DSD-020-SE, featuring a SERVOS interface.

5. Siemens

With a history spanning more than 170 years, Siemens is a global technology company. Siemens' servo drives are used in many diverse industrial applications, including CNC machining.

The company's offerings include the 6SL3120-1TE21-0AA4, a 3-phase, single-motor module. It's part of the Sinamics S120 Series. There's also the 6SL3120-1TE13-0AD0, a servo drive that replaced the 6SL3120-1TE13-0AA4.

6. Control Techniques

Control Techniques was founded in 1973 as KTK to design an innovative new drive. It re-branded as Control Techniques in 1985 and is now a brand of NIDEC Corporation.

Control Techniques servo drives include the DST1401P, which peaks at 4.5 amps.

7. Teijin Seiki

Japan's Teijin Seiki Co., LTD and Nabco Co., LTD merged in 2003 to form the Nabtesco Corporation. Teijin Seiki servo drives are still prized for their precision and control.

Examples include the ARS135-25, which operates at 200-230 V.

8. Indramat

Founded in 1958, Indramat is now part of Bosch Rexroth. Its line includes the DKC06.3-016-7-FW, a 3-phase servo drive.

servo motor manufacturers

Frequently Asked Questions About Servo Drives and Servo Motors

Industrial Automation Co. is proud to provide products from the top servo drive and motor manufacturers. Read on to learn more about these essential industrial devices.

What Is a Servo System?

A servo system is a closed-loop control system that uses feedback from sensors to control a servo motor's position, velocity, and acceleration. Besides the motor, the system typically includes a servo drive and sensors such as encoders or resolvers.

What Are the Different Types of Servo Motors?

Servo motor manufacturers typically make two distinct types: AC servo motors and DC servo motors.

What Are the Advantages of AC Servo Motors?

AC servo motors offer a wide range of benefits, including:

  • High accuracy and precision
  • Fast response times
  • High torque density
  • Low rotor inertia

What Are the Advantages of DC Servo Motors?

DC servo motors deliver an array of valuable benefits, such as:

  • High torque at low speeds
  • Wide speed range
  • Ease of use
  • Energy efficiency
  • Cost-effectiveness

What Is the Difference Between a Stepper Motor and a Servo Motor?

Stepper motors move in fixed steps, while servo motors move smoothly and continuously. Servo motors generally are more precise and accurate than stepper motors.

What Are the Different Kinds of Servo Drives?

Regardless of the servo drive manufacturer, the main servo drives are analog and digital.

What Are the Advantages of Analog Servo Drives?

Analog servo drives offer a variety of advantages, like:

  • Simplicity
  • Cost-effectiveness
  • Smooth operation
  • Low noise

They're also compatible with a wide range of servo motors.

What Are the Advantages of Digital Servo Drives?

Digital servo drives provide several advantages, including:

  • High accuracy and precision
  • Advanced control features
  • Flexible programming
  • High-speed operation
  • Robust communication capabilities

What Is the Difference Between a Servo Drive and a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)?

A servo drive is specifically designed to control a servo motor's position, velocity, and acceleration, while a VFD manages the speed of an AC motor. Compared to VFDs, servo drives typically provide higher performance and more precise control.

How Do Servo Motors and Drives Work Together?

Servo drives receive input signals from a PLC or controller and use this information to control the operation of a servo motor. The drive adjusts the motor's speed and position based on feedback signals from sensors like encoders.

What Are the Benefits of Using Servo Motors and Drives?

Servo motors and drives provide precise and accurate motion control, making them ideal for applications requiring high levels of precision. They also offer low maintenance requirements, increased efficiency, and help reduce energy consumption.

What Are Some Common Applications of Servo Motors and Drives?

Servo motors and drives are used in numerous applications, including robotics, packaging, automation, and CNC machining. They are instrumental in applications requiring precise and accurate motion control.

How Do I Choose the Right Servo Motor and Drive for My Application?

Choosing a suitable servo motor or drive requires careful consideration of factors such as torque, speed, and feedback requirements. It's essential to consult with a knowledgeable supplier to ensure you choose the best components for your application.

What Are Common Maintenance Requirements for Servo Motors and Drives?

Servo motors and drives generally require minimal maintenance, but it's vital to regularly inspect and check the devices to ensure they function correctly. This can include tasks like:

  • Checking wiring connections
  • Performing routine calibration and adjustments
  • Cleaning and lubricating components

What Are Typical Troubleshooting Tips for Servo Motors and Drives?

If you experience issues with your servo motor and drive system, common troubleshooting steps may include:

  • Adjusting control settings
  • Checking wiring connections
  • Performing diagnostic tests to identify any faults or errors

Consult with a qualified technician if you are unsure how to address any issues.

drive manufacturers

Trust Your Servo Drive and Motor Needs to Industrial Automation Co.

Turn to Industrial Automation Co. for products from top servo drive and servo motor manufacturers. Our extensive lineup is sure to meet your needs. We offer fast turnaround times and unparalleled customer service, ensuring you get the devices you need when you need them. Request a quote for the servo motor or drive that meets your requirements today.

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