Five-phase drives perform 500k steps/rev

A Japanese company has developed a five-phase stepper drive capable of 500,000 steps per revolution. This is twice the resolution of rival systems, it claims.

Mycom`s NanoDrives are aimed at high-resolution applications in areas such as robotics, metal machining, and packaging, especially where overheating could be a problem.

The drives incorporate a "torque chip" designed to maintain maximum holding and running torque. The chips also regulate motor temperatures, boosting their performance and extending their lives.

According to Mycom, most other five-phase motors can reach a temperature of 100°C after operating for just 30 minutes. The company claims that its system allows motors to run for 190 minutes without going above 69°C. If the motor does become too hot, it stops automatically.

The NanoDrive system is available in either 110-120V AC or 24V DC versions, and includes five-phase stepper motors with current ratings from 1.4-2.8A, in Nema frame sizes 17-34.

More information on the NanoDrives is available on the Web site of Mycom`s US subsidiary, Nyden Corporation.