Electric motors are the key drive units for mechanical motion in industry, mechanical engineering and domestic appliances. They efficiently convert electrical energy into rotational motion and are available in a wide variety of designs.
The main types are asynchronous motors / three-phase motors (the industry standard, robust and low-maintenance), synchronous motors (for precision applications), servo motors (highly dynamic, controllable drives), DC motors (for variable speed), stepper motors (positioning) and linear motors for direct linear motion.
Leading manufacturers include Siemens, ABB, SEW-Eurodrive, WEG, Bosch Rexroth, Lenze, NORD Drivesystems, Schneider Electric, Beckhoff and Mitsubishi Electric.
Electric motors are used in machine tools, conveyor systems, pumps and fans, robotics and handling, lifts and crane systems, the packaging and food industries, as well as in electric vehicles and rail vehicles.