Servo Electric Motor | Functions, Varieties & Distinctions from Typical Motors
Servo electric motors are used in all areas of industry that require accuracy in motion control. From robotics to automation systems, these motors are extremely valuable in placement systems where accurate positioning is crucial. Fewer people are asking, “What is the purpose of a servo motor?”, “What are the 3 types of servo electric motor?”, “Why would you use a servo instead of a motor?” and “What is the difference between a servo motor and a regular motor?” This guide will highlight why servo motors are essential in modern engineering and address these inquiries.
What Is The Function Of A Servo Electric Motor?
A servo motor’s core purpose is control over unit positioning, speed, and torque for a specific application. Unlike common electric motors that inductively rotate upon being energized, a servo motor not only rotates, but is commanded to move/step into a specific position, and is capable of maintaining that position despite active load variations.
Usage of a Servo Electric Motor:
Robotics – These motors enable the arms of robots to rotate and move to the desired configurations vastly easier than other types of motors.
CNC Machines – Computer controlled machining tools like lathes and mills have servo motors for enhanced cutting and shaping precision.
Automated Manufacturing – Employed in support lines where movements of arms or standers to perform other operations require precision.
Aerospace & Defense – Navigation for aircraft is done using the RC motors for servo systems.
Medical Equipment – Such devices need high accuracy for a total robotic motion.
RC Vehicles & Drones – Operations like steering, throttle for drone motors or wing movements are controlled by a servo system.
What makes servo motors special?
Since motors for servo systems do not use as much energy like regular motors, they are helpful in conserving energy.

What are the 3 types of servo electric motor?
For each application, control system, motor arrangement or servo systems and its operations leads to design three basic types of motors:
1. AC Servo Motor
Alternating current AC is fed into the device and the motor rotates, it is also referred to as an induction motor. Its defined efficiency makes it popular in industry.
Best For automations and other components of Multi-staged CNC machines, Robotic items.
Advantages
Working at high speeds is achievable.
DC servo motors have less power, Servos rotating the propeller of an aircraft and others are stronger than AC servos.
They do not have set dates for the industrial revolution.
Disadvantages
They’re blocked for months for being more expensive than other costs set on the internal devices.
Difficult ports are set on the control systems.
2. DC Servo Motor
The propeller and counterpart are driven by XR motors according to the given currents SP. For small armatures enclosing the motor the drive is DC. Low costs found him in case of strict precision requirements.
Best For motors of the type steer, electronics and plumbing systems, medical equipment, and robotics.
Advantages
Personal pliers guide controlling the corner plane.
When using these servo and propel devices, they work better as a team.
Apply propellers of ultra-low pulse drives to the output of zero mark on measurement systems used in anti-warfare powers and set non-rotatable pointers.
Cons:
Brush versions require more maintenance.
Speed range is limited.
3. Stepper Servo Motor (Hybrid Servo Motor)
Both stepper motor and servo control features are incorporated in the design of a stepper servo motor, which results in high torque and accurate positioning.
Best suited for: 3D printers, automated cameras, and other precision tools.
Pros:
Does not lose position under load.
Efficiency is greater than a regular stepper motor.
Can operate in open-loop or closed-loop systems.
Cons:
More expensive than standard stepper motors.
Requires more complex controllers.
Why use a servo instead of a motor?
For rotation, a regular electric motor is useful, but a servo motor is better suited for controlling the position, speed, and torque of a shaft. Here are the reasons why servos are preferred in some applications:
1. Precision Control
Robotics requires very precise angles and movements. Unlike standard motors, servo motors can have their position controlled even when external forces are trying to move them.
2. Feedback System
Encoders or similar devices are used in monitoring the position and speed of the motor. Feedback has been provided to make servo motors suitable for applications such as robotics, while ordinary motors do not possess the same capabilities.
3. Energy Efficiency
Servo motors economize energy as they only draw power when absolute necessity arises. Ordinary motors waste energy due to functioning irrespectively to motion requirements.
4. Speed Regulation
Servo motors make it possible to increase or decrease speed smoothly unlike regular motors which are fixed speed without external control systems.
5. Stability Under Load
For any application where a motor must retain its position regardless of changing loads like in robotic arms, a servo motor works best. Standard electric motors cannot maintain position without external control means so they are less effective.
What is the Difference Between a Servo Motor and a Regular Motor?
A comparison of functions show the most relevant differences between servo motors and regular electric motors.
Feature | Servo Motor | Regular Motor |
Purpose | Precision motion control | Continuous rotation |
Control System | Uses feedback (encoders) | No feedback system |
Speed Control | Adjustable and programmable | Runs at constant speed |
Torque Control | High torque at low speeds | Varies with speed |
Energy Consumption | Uses power efficiently | Runs continuously |
Common Applications | Robotics, CNC, automation | Fans, pumps, conveyor belts |
When to use a servo motor and regular motor?
In cases where position, speed, and torque control is required, a servo motor is most preferred.
Use a regular motor when continuous operation at a set speed is required.
Common Applications of Servo Motors
You can find servo motors in a number of industries. Some of them are:
Manufacturing: Automated machines that require precision and accuracy.
Robotics: For operating robot joints and movements.
CNC Machinery: Milling, drilling, and laser cutting use them.
Medical Equipment: They are used in robotic surgery and imaging devices.
Drones and RC Vehicles: Control movement of the machines with precision.
Automotive Systems: Electronic throttle control and active suspension units use these.
Conclusion
As you can see, the motors are important in the automation of processes and precision applications, which makes one wonder, “What is the purpose of a servo motor?” The answer is, it provides control for position, speed, and torque for precise operations. Depending on the power and degree of accuracy needed, there are three major types: AC servo motors, DC servo motors, and stepper servo motors.
Clearly, it is efficient and effective to ask, “Why would you use a servo instead of a motor?” The answer is precision, efficiency, and real-time feedback. This is why, when comparing regular motors vs servo motors, the advantage goes to servo motors for accuracy, controlled movement, and energy savings. Such precision instruments will, therefore, remain essential technology in modern engineering.
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