Glossary · Motion control and drives
Electric motor
Also known as: Motor, Engine (in translated documents)
German: Motor
In industrial automation, an electric motor is a rotating or linear electrical machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. IEC 60034 covers rotating electrical machines, including their ratings and performance.
- Motion control
- Technical documentation
In one sentence
An electric motor converts electrical into mechanical energy; in machine documentation, prefer motor over engine for electric drives.
Example
The conveyor's electric motor is a 1.5 kW induction motor with a nameplate stating rated voltage, current, speed and duty type.
How it applies
- Engineering: Motors are selected by torque and speed over the load cycle, duty type, cooling, degree of protection and efficiency class.
- Operation: Rated values from the nameplate (voltage, current, power, speed, duty type) are the reference for drive parameters and Motor protection.
- Maintenance: Bearings, cooling, insulation and, for some types, brakes and brushes are maintenance points.
- Documentation: In English documentation, "engine" means a combustion engine; an electric machine is a "motor". The German "Motor" is often mistranslated as "engine", so add this pair to the terminology database and translation memory. Warn about hot surfaces (Thermal hazard) and the need for Energy isolation before work.
Motor vs. engine
An engine converts fuel energy (combustion) into mechanical work. A motor usually converts electrical energy. Hydraulic and pneumatic motors also exist; qualify them when they appear next to electric motors.