If asked to define the difference between a standard motor and an electric custom motor, most engineers will not only give the meanings by definition, but will include opinions of the implied meanings of these words.
The word “custom” can bring to mind different connotations like expensive, long lead times, or experimental. Conversely, the next person may see custom as innovative, made to fit, or designed around specification. Connotations that are applied to the definition of “standard” vary from less expensive, short lead times, and proven design to improper performance to requires modification for application. While these viewpoints can both be correct, depending on the degree of customization, an explanation of how a motor gets its custom or standard labeling is needed.
How a Standard Motor is Defined
The process to qualify a motor as standard starts by determining the frame or envelope size; this may be the result of market interest feedback or the growth of custom motor volume via OEM opportunities that is converted to a standard product. Either way, within the defined frame size there are limitless modifications that can be made. For example, a permanent magnet DC motor with a given shell or envelope size has several customizable components like lead wires, output shafts, mountings, armature windings (performance), brake/encoder options and IP ratings to name a few. Manufacturers will narrow down these options into a handful of units and define them as standard motor offerings. A simple change from standard, like different gauge wire, could make the motor custom. From the listed options you can see how quickly these modifications multiply. While it doesnt make sense to offer all options as standard, systems can be put in place to offer customers as many options possible in the shortest lead time possible.
Electric Custom Motor Does Not = Risk
A custom motor doesnt necessarily imply a long lead time, additional expense, or experimental. In fact, most times the modifications made to standard product can actually reduce the overall project duration and cost by reducing the number of sample iterations. Custom should not be a scary word when it comes to electric motors because of all the available options. Dont be afraid to ask for exactly what you need, you may be surprised how quickly we can accommodate you.
>>Looking for an electric custom motor? Call us today and ask about our FAST TRACK department, specializing in customizing motors to fit your needs without the long lead times. Offerings include everything from special leads, shaft modifications, and various mounting options to adding brakes, encoders and features for sealing. Often, custom motors can ship within 48hrs.