Induction Motor to Stepper Motor

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SUMMARY

Induction motors cannot be used as stepper motors due to their fundamental differences in construction and operation. Stepper motors are synchronous motors with specific physical features that induction motors lack, such as gear-like teeth. Induction motors operate asynchronously, relying on slip to generate torque, which is incompatible with the synchronous operation required for stepper motors. In applications requiring precise control, Brushless DC (BLDC) or Permanent Magnet AC (PMAC) motors are often more suitable alternatives.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of motor types: induction motors, stepper motors, BLDC motors
  • Knowledge of synchronous vs. asynchronous motor operation
  • Familiarity with torque generation principles in electric motors
  • Basic concepts of motor control applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between synchronous and asynchronous motors
  • Learn about the construction and operation of stepper motors
  • Explore applications of Brushless DC (BLDC) and Permanent Magnet AC (PMAC) motors
  • Investigate torque generation mechanisms in various motor types
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineers, motor control specialists, and anyone involved in selecting or designing motor systems for precise applications will benefit from this discussion.

Ana Mido
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Can induction motor be used as a stepper motor ?
 
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No.

Stepper motors are special synchronous motors. Induction motors are asynchronous by nature: the slip is, what generates the torque.

If you try to use it in synchronous mode then no slip - no torque.
 
Last edited:
Also - zero speed - essentially zero torque. If this was in any way possible ti would have been done as Steppers are expensive. However - depending on the application a BLDC/PMAC motor is often used as a servo motor... in some application a stepper or BLDC can be considered.

If you have an application that can use an induction motor, then the Stepper was probably not the best original choice.
 

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