Induction Motor to Stepper Motor

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the feasibility of using an induction motor as a stepper motor, exploring the differences in their construction and operational principles. It touches on theoretical aspects and practical applications.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants argue that induction motors cannot be used as stepper motors due to their differing physical construction features.
  • One participant highlights that stepper motors are synchronous while induction motors are inherently asynchronous, which affects their torque generation.
  • Another participant notes that at zero speed, induction motors produce essentially zero torque, suggesting that if it were feasible to use an induction motor as a stepper, it would have already been implemented due to cost considerations.
  • There is mention of alternative motor types, such as BLDC/PMAC motors, which may be more suitable for certain applications compared to stepper motors.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that induction motors and stepper motors have fundamental differences that prevent the former from being used as the latter. However, there are varying opinions on the implications of these differences and potential alternatives.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the technical limitations or assumptions regarding the operational characteristics of induction and stepper motors.

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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