Comparison of Ironcore and Ironless Linear Motors

Comparison of Ironcore and Ironless Linear Motors

 There are significant differences between ironless linear motors and ironcore linear motors. The following is a comparative analysis of the two in terms of structure, performance, and application scenarios.

1.Structural Differences

Core-core linear motor: usually includes stator, mover, and core part. The core part is composed of many silicon steel sheets stacked together to form a strong magnetic field, which interacts with the coil in the stator to generate a driving force.

Coreless linear motor: The core part is eliminated, and it is mainly composed of stator, mover, and air gap. There is no core in the coil of the force-applying component, and the copper winding is encapsulated in the air gap between the two rows of magnets.

2.Performance Comparison

Performance Indicator

Iron-core Linear Motor

Ironless Linear Motor

Thrust Density

Higher

Relatively Lower

Efficiency

Higher

Relatively Lower (but faster dynamic response)

Mass

Heavier (due to iron core)

Lighter

Dynamic Response Speed

Average

Very High

Thermal Performance

Good (but can generate significant heat)

Better (no iron core reduces thermal resistance)

Heat Dissipation Efficiency

Good

Lower (due to smaller contact area and longer heat conduction path)

Cogging Effect

Present, limiting motion smoothness

None, smoother motion

Attractive Force

High, up to 5-13 times the rated thrust

None, facilitating handling and installation

Bearing Lifespan

May be affected by high attractive force

Increased due to no attractive force

3.Application Scenarios

Core-core linear motor:

It has high thrust density and high positioning accuracy. It is suitable for high-precision and high-load application scenarios such as CNC machine tools, automated production lines, and precision machining equipment. These application scenarios have high requirements for the thrust and positioning accuracy of the motor.

Core-less linear motor:

It has fast dynamic response speed and good thermal performance. It has broad application prospects in high-speed rail transportation, electric vehicle drive systems, and other fields. These scenarios have high requirements for the response speed and thermal performance of the motor. At the same time, core-less linear motors are also suitable for applications that need very small bearing friction, high acceleration under light loads, and can still ensure the highest constant speed under ultra-low speed conditions.

4.Summary of Advantages and Disadvantages

Ironcore linear motor:

Advantages: high thrust density, low iron core design cost, and good heat dissipation.

Disadvantages: high attraction increases installation difficulty, the cogging effect limits motion smoothness and may generate large heat.

Ironless linear motor:

Advantages: No attraction, easy to operate and install. Relatively smooth movement, no cogging effect. Fast dynamic response speed, and good thermal performance. High acceleration of light force components.

Disadvantages: Relatively low thrust density and efficiency. Lower heat dissipation efficiency than iron core motors. Low full load power and high cost (due to the use of dual magnets).

Conclusion

Ironless linear motors and iron core linear motors each have their own unique advantages and applicable scenarios. The selection should be based on the specific application needs and performance requirements.

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