Comparison of Characteristics: Long-Body vs. Short-Body Stepper Motors
- Motor Length Distinction
In stepper motor selection, body length is a key parameter influencing performance suitability. Long-body and short-body motors exhibit significant differences in torque output, response speed, cooling requirements, and power supply compatibility, which directly affect their applicability in various scenarios.
Note: For common frame sizes such as NEMA 23, NEMA 17, and NEMA 34, the term "long-body" is not defined by the NEMA standard itself, but rather reflects industry conventions and manufacturer-specific designs.
Model | Standard Length Range | Long-Body Threshold |
|---|---|---|
NEMA17 | 34mm~54mm | >54mm |
NEMA23 | 40.5mm~76.5mm | >76.5mm |
NEMA34 | 65mm~127mm | >127mm |
- Characteristic Comparison
Feature Category | Long body stepper motor | Short body stepper motor |
|---|---|---|
Torque performance | The moment of inertia is large, the current loss in the startup phase is obvious, the actual maximum operating torque is about 70% of the static torque, and the torque loss effect is prominent. | The moment of inertia is small, the starting current loss is low, the deviation between the actual operating torque and the static torque is controlled within 10%~15%, and the output stability is higher. |
Startup response characteristics | It takes a long time to transition from standstill to rated speed, and there is a lag in response. | Small inertial resistance, quick start response, more suitable for high-frequency start-stop working conditions. |
Cooling requirements | The core thickness and winding length are longer, and the starting current loss generates heat. It is necessary to optimize the shell structure or add heat dissipation components to ensure stability. | The winding layout is compact and the heat generation is low. Conventional heat dissipation structure can meet the operation requirements without additional heat dissipation cost. |
Power adapter | A high-output drive power source is required to compensate for torque loss and ensure that power output meets standards. | Lower requirements on power supply performance, ordinary stepper motor drive power supply can be adapted, effectively reducing system configuration costs. |
Induced electromotive force characteristics | The winding has many turns and the core magnetic circuit is long. When rotating, the winding cuts a wide range of magnetic field and the back electromotive force peak is higher. | The number of winding turns is small, the core magnetic circuit is compact, and the back electromotive force peak is significantly lower. |
- Summary
The two types of motors have complementary characteristics: long-body motors are suitable for scenarios with low speed, heavy load, and high continuous torque requirements, while short-body motors are more suitable for scenarios with light load, high speed, and high-frequency response requirements.
Updated on: 25/09/2025
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