Motors & Motor Controls

Motor controls and electrical motor parts have several functions and applications. Regardless of the type of motor you're using in your project, you'll need to have a controller of some form. Big or small, RS has all the motors you need and the controls to run them.

With a range of AC motor controllers and motors, DC motors, Servo motors, Stepper motors and Synchronous motors in both direct drive and geared versions, you're sure to find everything you need right here.

Whether you're searching for simple manual motor starters, standard DOL motor starters, AC drives, soft starters or advanced motor starters, we have the motor controls and electrical motor parts to provide the level of control your application requires.

RS also carries combination motor starters for easy installation and a full line of protection products to keep your motors humming.

Read on to find out more about how motor control equipment could suit the job you're working on.

What are motor controls?

Motor controls are a device or set of devices that help a motor work. There are two modes in which the components can start or stop the motor - manual and automatic. The motor controls are also able to engage the motor into a forward or reverse motion, as well as regulating the speed and torque and protecting against electrical failures.

All electrical motors have a controller of some type. The simplest example of a motor control mechanism is a regular switch that connects a motor to its power source. Depending on the complexity of the application, you may require a number of electrical motor parts to complete the system.

There are a range of motor types which are designed to operate in different ways:

Motor starters

If you have a small motor, it can be started by simply plugging the electrical switch into a socket and switching the power button on. Larger motors require a motor starter which are specialized switching units used to power an electric motor.

Overload heaters and relays

These are used to protect motors from current overloads causing overheating, unrepairable damage and disruption to service. They use what's called a bimetallic strip which heats up in case of overcurrent. Then, the tripping auxiliary contacts stop the motor to avoid any damage.

Motor control accessories

Among our motor control equipment, you'll find a number of accessories, all of which will help you to complete your project. Here are just some of the parts we have available here at RS:

• Carbon brushes
• Mounted rotary handles
• Drum switches
• Supply terminals
• Distribution units
• Motor starter accessory replacements

Where is motor control equipment used?

There are two main types of motor controls, DC and AC. Each is used in a different setting, and it's important to know which one you should be using for your project before you start.

AC motor controllers and drives are used to control the speeds of motors that drive equipment such as pumps and fans. They're mainly used where traditional valves or dampers might otherwise be used to throttle the flow. AC motors are used to increase efficiency by setting the pump or fan, for example, at a speed that exactly matches your project's requirements.

DC motor controllers and drives are used to control DC motors running from AC sources. They have a low-speed torque making them suited to applications like winches and cranes, where loads need to be lifted without what's called a 'running start'.

What are the advantages of using electrical motor parts?

There are several reasons that motor controls are perfect for your application. First, they offer a high level of protection for the motor itself and subsequently the mechanics. They also help to maintain a constant speed, even when the loads are changing.

Another advantage is that they have a dynamic response to changing system demands, even in a braking condition with 4-quadrant drive. Motor controls also monitor the machine to evaluate its overall performance and produce diagnostics.

Additionally, they're energy saving and can help with accurate speed control of the application or project they're being used in.

Why choose RS for your motors and motor controls?

We're the largest authorized distributors of motor control equipment in North America. We stock leading manufacturers including AMETEK, LOVATO, Omron and Panasonic. Our range of motor controls meets the highest industry standards of performance, so you can rest assured you're working with both practical and safe parts.

Should you have any questions, our team is on hand to help, so why not get in touch today. You can also find plenty of useful advice in our expert content hub.