Drones are a marvel of modern engineering that make it possible to record video, make deliveries, survey on-ground conditions over a large area, and monitor buildings and activity for defense surveillance purposes. From military and aerospace drones to small hobby drones and larger delivery or cinematography drones and beyond, these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can quickly reach places previously inaccessible to humans.
In addition to propellers and speed controls, drones are equipped with electric motors that create thrust for flight. There are several common types of motors commonly used in drones; however, the design of any motor intended for a drone must be compact, lightweight, and highly energy efficient. These characteristics ensure the drone will have maximum flight time and endurance with minimal energy consumption. Keep reading to learn more about types of drone motors, how they are specified, and why Composite Motors (CMI) is your source for brushless DC drone motors for many applications.
Types of Drone Motors
Different motor configurations can be used in drones depending on the application. Three of the most common include:
- Brushless DC Motors. Brushless drone motors are widely used because they are energy efficient, reliable, and require little maintenance and upkeep. They have a high power-to-weight ratio for carrying heavier payloads, and they offer extremely precise control of the speed and direction of the drone.
- Brushed Motors. Brushed drone motors have a simple design that is cost-effective; however they are less powerful and require increased frequency of service and repair compared to brushless motors. They are more commonly used for toys and other non-critical drone applications.
- Coreless Motors. This type of motor has a coreless rotor, which makes the motor light weight and gives it a higher power density. As a result, these motors operate smoothly, have a quick response time and are commonly used for larger drone sizes.
Key Specifications for Drone Motors
Drone motors are available in a variety of configurations. The following considerations are important when specifying a drone motor for a specific application:
- KV Rating. The KV rating is the motor’s RPMs per volt. Higher KV motors (e.g., 2300 KV) are suited for higher-speed or lightweight uses, such as racing, while lower KV motors (e.g., 900 KV) are designed for carrying heavier payloads, such as a camera, package, or other piece of equipment.
- Motor Size. The size of the motor is related to the amount of thrust it can generate. A motor with a larger stator can create more power and torque.
- Weight and Efficiency. To maximize performance in any application, it’s important to consider how the flight time and payload capacity required compare with the corresponding motor size, power consumption, battery life, and total drone weight. Note that reduced motor weight also improves the drone’s agility.
- RPM and Torque. Drone motors with high RPMs generate faster speeds, while high-torque motors have enhanced lift capabilities.
- Motor Controller Requirements. Motor controllers for brushless motors use sensors and sensorless architecture to regulate the speed, direction, and torque the motor generates. CMI designs custom motor controllers for brushless DC drone motors.
Drone Motors from CMI
CMI provides brushless DC motors, motor controllers, and other types of custom electric motors for drones used in aerospace, military, industrial, and commercial drone applications. CMI has vertically integrated manufacturing processes that range from precision machining to in-house motor manufacturing and printed circuit board assemblies to focus on quality, lead time and cost. Additionally, our motors are designed to meet the harshest environments, and our controllers will meet MIL STD 883\METHOD 1014 (modify) for hermetic packaging. Contact us today to learn more about our brushless DC motors, controllers, and other custom products.