{"id":1352,"date":"2019-08-08T14:11:19","date_gmt":"2019-08-08T14:11:19","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/gearmotorblog.wordpress.com\/?p=1352"},"modified":"2020-05-13T22:15:45","modified_gmt":"2020-05-13T22:15:45","slug":"gearmotors-for-conveyors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Select and Size Gearmotors for Conveyor Applications"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>This post provides step-by-step instructions for how to size and select a gearmotor in a belt-driven conveyor application. Before sizing a gearmotor, we must first know the application requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>For our example, the conveyor system requirements are as follows:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"alignright\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-coveryor_crop.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"281\" height=\"214\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-coveryor_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Industrial automation system with belt conveyor.\" class=\"wp-image-1358\"\/><\/a><figcaption>Industrial automation system with belt conveyor.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Able to handle a 200lb (90kg) load<\/li><li>Have adjustable speed, up to 12 inches\/second<\/li><li>Be able to accelerate in 1 second<\/li><li>Powered by 115VAC<\/li><li>Has 4 inch (102mm) diameter rollers<\/li><li>Allows for frequent starts\/stops<\/li><li>Zero gearmotor maintenance<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Now we must translate these requirements into gearmotor specifications. First, we will determine the required speed and torque, then we review the gearmotor options that best fit with our conveyor specifications, and&nbsp; last, we select a stock gearmotor and drive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"alignright\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-application.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"261\" height=\"147\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-application.jpg\" alt=\"Belt conveyor with a Bodine 42A-FX gearmotor and WPM speed control.\" class=\"wp-image-1347\"\/><\/a><figcaption>Belt conveyor with a Bodine 42A-FX PMDC gearmotor and WPM DC motor speed control.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong>Step 1: Determine speed and torque <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>In order to size a gearmotor, we need to identify:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Speed (N)<\/strong> \u2013 The speed required to drive the application per its specifications<\/li><li style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>T<sub>ACCEL <\/sub><\/strong>\u2013 The reflected acceleration torque<\/li><li style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>T<sub>FRICTION <\/sub><\/strong>\u2013 The reflected friction torque<\/li><li style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>T<sub>BREAKAWAY <\/sub><\/strong>\u2013 The reflected breakaway torque<\/li><li style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>T<sub>GRAVITY <\/sub><\/strong>\u2013 The reflected gravity torque<\/li><li style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>T<sub>CONT<\/sub> and HP<\/strong><sub><strong>CONT<\/strong>&nbsp; <\/sub>\u2013 The continuous torque and horsepower needed for the application<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> T<sub>ACCEL<\/sub> may be ignored unless acceleration time is critical. T<sub>ACCEL<\/sub> and T<sub>GRAVITY<\/sub> can be calculated using the equations in this paper. T<sub>FRICTION<\/sub> and T<sub>BREAKAWAY<\/sub> will have to be measured using one of the methods described in this paper. T<sub>BREAKAWAY<\/sub> is only a factor during starting. T<sub>FRICTION<\/sub> and T<sub>GRAVITY<\/sub> will be used to determine continuous torque (T<sub>CONT<\/sub>). T<sub>GRAVITY<\/sub> is only considered when the belt is not mounted horizontally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong>Step 1: Determine speed and torque, contd&#8230;<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"alignright\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_07470035_belt-drive.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"396\" height=\"288\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_07470035_belt-drive.jpg?w=300\" alt=\"Bodine-gearmotors-for conveyors_07470035_belt-drive\" class=\"wp-image-1340\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_07470035_belt-drive.jpg 396w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_07470035_belt-drive-300x218.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 396px) 100vw, 396px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Speed<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Equation 1:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; N = (9.55 \u2022 V<sub>Load<\/sub><strong> ) \/ r<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Where 9.55 has the units sec-rev\/min.&nbsp; From the given system requirements, we know V<sub>Load<\/sub> = 12 in\/sec and r = 2 in, therefore <strong>N = 57.3RPM.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>B.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;T<sub>ACCEL<\/sub><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>T<sub>ACCEL<\/sub> may be ignored unless acceleration time is critical. It will be used in determining if the selected gearmotor has adequate starting capability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-accel_11-12-2013.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2356\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-accel_11-12-2013.jpg?w=500\" alt=\"Bodine-gearmotors-for conveyors_formula-T-accel_11-12-2013\" class=\"wp-image-1344\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-accel_11-12-2013.jpg 2356w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-accel_11-12-2013-300x38.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-accel_11-12-2013-768x98.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-accel_11-12-2013-1024x130.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2356px) 100vw, 2356px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Equation 2: <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We know that <b>W<sub>LOAD<\/sub><\/b> = 200 lbs. x 16 oz\/lb. = 3,200 oz., <b>V<sub>LOAD<\/sub><\/b> = 12 in\/sec., ta= 1 sec., r = 2 in. and we will assume that<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"alignright\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_definition-of-variables_11-12-2013.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"271\" height=\"749\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_definition-of-variables_11-12-2013.jpg\" alt=\"Bodine gearmotors for conveyors -- Definition of Variables 11\/2013\" class=\"wp-image-1355\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_definition-of-variables_11-12-2013.jpg 271w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_definition-of-variables_11-12-2013-109x300.jpg 109w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 271px) 100vw, 271px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><b>J<sub>MOTOR<\/sub> = W<sub>ROLLER <\/sub>= W<sub>BELT<\/sub> = 0 <\/b>for our initial calculation. Therefore, <strong>T<sub>ACCEL<\/sub> = 199 oz-in<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>C.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; T<sub>FRICTION<\/sub><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The friction torque (T<sub>FRICTION<\/sub>) can be estimated through measurements as described in the \u201cTest Motor Method\u201d on page 4 of the PDF or at the end of this blog post.&nbsp; For our example, we will assume the measured <strong>T<sub>FRICTION<\/sub> = 100 oz-in.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>D.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; T<sub>BREAKAWAY<\/sub><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The reflected breakaway torque can be estimated through measurements as described in the \u201cSpring and Pulley Method\u201d, the \u201cTorque Wrench Method\u201d, or the \u201cTest Motor Method\u201d on page 4 of the PDF or at the end of this blog post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For our example, we will assume the measured&nbsp; <strong>T<sub>BREAKAWAY<\/sub> = 120 oz-in.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>E.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; T<sub>GRAVITY<\/sub><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gravity torque only needs to be considered when the belt is not mounted horizontally. It is a positive number when the load is moved upward, and a negative number when the load is moved downward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Equation 3:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; T<sub>GRAVITY<\/sub> (oz-in.) = r WLOAD sin \u03c6<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In our example, the conveyor is not inclined, therefore&nbsp; \u03c6= 0\u00b0, which means that T<sub>GRAVITY<\/sub> = 0.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>F.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; T<sub>CONT<\/sub>&nbsp; and&nbsp; HP<sub>CONT<\/sub><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now we can calculated the continuous torque required for the application. This will be the torque value we will use to determine the continuous horsepower required, and these are the values, along with the calculated speed, that we will use to select a gearmotor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-cont_11-12-2013.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2037\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-cont_11-12-2013.jpg?w=300\" alt=\"Bodine-gearmotors-for conveyors_formula-T-cont_11-12-2013\" class=\"wp-image-1345\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-cont_11-12-2013.jpg 2037w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-cont_11-12-2013-300x44.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-cont_11-12-2013-768x113.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-t-cont_11-12-2013-1024x151.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2037px) 100vw, 2037px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Equation 4:&nbsp; <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, <strong>T<sub>CONT<\/sub> = 100 oz-in = 6.25 lb-in.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-hp_11-12-2013.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2076\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-hp_11-12-2013.jpg?w=300\" alt=\"Bodine-gearmotors-for conveyors_formula-HP_11-12-2013\" class=\"wp-image-1342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-hp_11-12-2013.jpg 2076w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-hp_11-12-2013-300x43.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-hp_11-12-2013-768x111.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_formula-hp_11-12-2013-1024x148.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2076px) 100vw, 2076px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Equation 5:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, <b>HP<sub>CONT<\/sub><\/b> = .00568 = <strong>1\/176.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>We have completed all of the initial calculations required to select a gearmotor. Once we have one selected, we must ensure that its starting torque capability is greater than or equal to the sum of all 4 torques above (<b>T<sub>ACCEL<\/sub>, T<sub>FRICTION<\/sub>, T<sub>BREAKAWAY<\/sub><\/b>, and T<sub>GRAVITY<\/sub>).<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong>Step 2: Determine the type of motor\/gearmotor that is best for the application.<\/strong><\/span><br>We can determine what type of motor to use by answering some basic questions:<br>Is the available power supply AC or DC? <strong>AC<\/strong><br>If AC, is the power supply 1 phase? <strong>YES<\/strong><br>If AC, is the power supply 3 phase? <strong>NO<\/strong><br>If DC, is the power supply low voltage (12\/24VDC)? <strong>NO<\/strong><br>If DC, is the power supply high voltage (90\/130VDC)? <strong>NO<\/strong><br>Does the application require adjustable output speed? <strong>YES<\/strong><br>Does application require point-to-point positioning? <strong>NO<\/strong><br>Does application require controlled acceleration and deceleration, even when an overhauling load is present? <strong>NO<\/strong><br>Would a brush motor be undesirable because of airborne dust, mechanical noise, electrical noise or brush maintenance needs? <strong>YES<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Based on the above answers a <strong>Brushless DC Motor\/Gearmotor with AC-Powered Speed Control<\/strong> or a&nbsp;<strong> 3-Phase AC Motor\/Gearmotor with AC-Powered Speed Control<\/strong> would be the best choice for this application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong>Step 3: Select a Gearmotor<\/strong><\/span><br><strong>Right Angle Gearmotor vs. Parallel Gearmotor<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Does the application have sizing\/spacing constraints? (sometimes, right angle is better)<\/li><li>Does the application require a self-locking gearmotor to prevent backdriving? (choose right angle, high ratio)<\/li><li>Is gearmotor efficiency important for the application? (choose parallel shaft, more efficient)<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In this case, none of the reasons for choosing a right-angle (worm) gearmotor are present, so we will choose a <strong>parallel shaft gearmotor<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong>Step 4: Select a Stock Product<\/strong><\/span><br>The following Bodine products match the specifications determined above, and the types of gearmotors we decided to use for this application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_solution-1-and-2_11-12-2013.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1099\" height=\"473\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_solution-1-and-2_11-12-2013.jpg\" alt=\"Bodine Gearmotors for Conveyor Applications - Product Options 11\/2013\" class=\"wp-image-1356\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_solution-1-and-2_11-12-2013.jpg 1099w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_solution-1-and-2_11-12-2013-300x129.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_solution-1-and-2_11-12-2013-768x331.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_solution-1-and-2_11-12-2013-1024x441.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1099px) 100vw, 1099px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong>Methods for Measuring the Breakaway and Friction Torque of a Machine.&nbsp; <\/strong><\/span>Excerpt from the <i><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/literature\/handbook\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Bodine Handbook<\/a><\/strong>,<\/i> Chapter 7, and <i>the <a title=\"Bodine Selection Guide\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/asp\/putstream.asp?context=\/pdf\/bodine_123_selection_guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B<\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"odine Selection Guide (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/core\/files\/bodineelectric\/resources\/2a50d21586bbde65918836605cf591bb.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">odine Selection Guide<\/a>&nbsp;(PDF).<\/i><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The String and Pulley Method<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"alignleft is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_07470035_string-pulley-method.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors_07470035_string-pulley-method.jpg\" alt=\"Figure A: Simple \u201cstring and pulley\u201d method of torque measure- ment (Torque = Force reading on spring scale mulitplied by radius of the pulley).\" class=\"wp-image-1341\" width=\"154\" height=\"213\"\/><\/a><figcaption>Figure A: Simple \u201cstring and pulley\u201d method of torque measurement (Torque = Force reading on spring scale mulitplied by radius of the pulley).<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Affix a pulley to the shaft of the machine to be driven (see Figure A). Secure one end of a cord to the outer surface of the pulley and wrap the cord around it. Tie the other end of the cord to a spring scale. Pull on the scale until the shaft turns. The force, in pounds indicated on the scale, multiplied by the radius of the pulley (in inches) gives the breakaway torque in pound-inches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Torque Wrench Method<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A simple torque wrench can be applied to the shaft of the machine to be driven. Turn the wrench as you would an ordinary pipe wrench, and when the shaft begins to rotate, read the value for T<sub>BREAKAWAY<\/sub> (in ounce-inches or pound-inches) on the torque wrench gauge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Test Motor Method<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"alignleft is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-lead-testing1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-lead-testing1.jpg\" alt=\"Figure B: AC motor or gearmotor with adjustable autotrans- former, and voltmeter connected for load measurement. \" class=\"wp-image-1349\" width=\"180\" height=\"132\"\/><\/a><figcaption>Figure B: AC motor or gearmotor with adjustable autotrans- former, and voltmeter connected for load measurement.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Both AC and DC test motors or gearmotors can be used to measure breakaway torque, (T<sub>BREAKAWAY<\/sub>), and friction torque, (T<sub>FRICTION<\/sub>). This method requires more time and instrumentation, but can be well worth the expense in the long run. It is the best way to optimally match machine and drive unit, and is popularly used for all high volume OEM (original equipment manufacturer) applications. After using these methods, contact the motor manufacturers\u2019 sales engineer for help in interpreting the data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><i>Test With An AC Drive \u2013 <\/i>Use a torque wrench or \u201cstring and pulley\u201d to find the approximate size of the test motor or gearmotor needed. An AC motor or gearmotor whose rated output speed is close to the desired \u201cfinal\u201d speed of the machine should be obtained. Next, hook up the AC drive, along with a variable autotransformer to the load (See Figure B). With a voltmeter connected to the line, increase the voltage supplied by the autotransformer until it starts and accelerates the load up to speed (to check speed use a tachometer or stroboscope). Record the starting voltage at all possible starting locations of the device. This is proportional to the T<sub>BREAKAWAY<\/sub>. Next, back off slowly until the motor stalls. Read the voltage. This is proportional to the T<sub>FRICTION<\/sub>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-load-testing2a.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"486\" height=\"313\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-load-testing2a.jpg\" alt=\"Bodine-gearmotors-for conveyors07470035-load-testing2a\" class=\"wp-image-1389\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-load-testing2a.jpg 486w, https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-load-testing2a-300x193.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 486px) 100vw, 486px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><i>\u201cTest\u201d With A DC Drive \u2013 <\/i>The DC method requires that both voltage and amperage readings be taken from the armature circuit (See Figure C). Speed of the DC motor is proportional to the voltage while T<sub>FRICTION<\/sub> is proportional to the armature amperage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>To download this Application Note as a<\/strong> PDF, please <a title=\"PDF Download - Sizing Gearmotors for Conveyor Applications\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/Asp\/PutStream.asp?Context=\/ApplicationNotes\/pdf\/bodine_sizing_gearmotors_for_conveyor_apps.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">cl<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/core\/files\/bodineelectric\/resources\/bodine-choosing-gearmotor-for-conveyors-07470035-A.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ick here<\/a>. To review our selection of variable speed AC, PMDC, and BLDC (EC) gearmotors, motors, and motor\u00a0speed controls, <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/products\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Copyright <a title=\"Bodine Electric Home Page\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"http:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Bodine Electric Company<\/a> \u00a9 08\/2019. All rights reserved.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"This post provides step-by-step instructions for how to size and select a gearmotor in a belt-driven conveyor application. Before sizing a gearmotor, we must first know the application requirements. For our example, the conveyor system requirements are as follows: Able to handle a 200lb (90kg) load Have adjustable speed, up to 12 inches\/second Be able<br \/><br \/><br \/><br \/><a class=\"view_link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\/\"> VIEW<\/a>","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2,4,6,7,10],"tags":[13,21,24,34,35,36,40,67],"class_list":["post-1352","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-application-tips","category-custom-solutions","category-engineering-talk","category-gearmotor-basics","category-standard-products","tag-ac-gearmotor","tag-bodine-electric-company","tag-brushless-dc-gearmotor","tag-fractional-horsepower","tag-gearmotor","tag-gearmotors","tag-inverter-duty","tag-variable-speed-gearmotors"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Select and Size Gearmotors for Conveyor Applications - Bodine - Gearmotor Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to find the right size, speed, and type of gearmotor for your conveyor application. Match your requirements with equipment all on the same site.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Select and Size Gearmotors for Conveyor Applications - Bodine - Gearmotor Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn how to find the right size, speed, and type of gearmotor for your conveyor application. Match your requirements with equipment all on the same site.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Bodine - Gearmotor Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2019-08-08T14:11:19+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2020-05-13T22:15:45+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.bodine-electric.com\/blog\/\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/11\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-coveryor_crop.jpg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Sarah Prais\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Sarah Prais\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"7 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Sarah Prais\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/fe298426e0e58166836c4430a5afda8d\"},\"headline\":\"How to Select and Size Gearmotors for Conveyor Applications\",\"datePublished\":\"2019-08-08T14:11:19+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2020-05-13T22:15:45+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1395,\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2013\\\/11\\\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-coveryor_crop.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"AC Gearmotor\",\"Bodine Electric Company\",\"Brushless DC Gearmotor\",\"Fractional Horsepower\",\"Gearmotor\",\"Gearmotors\",\"Inverter Duty\",\"Variable Speed Gearmotors\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Application Tips\",\"Custom Solutions\",\"Engineering Talk\",\"Gearmotor Basics\",\"Standard Products\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\\\/\",\"name\":\"How to Select and Size Gearmotors for Conveyor Applications - Bodine - Gearmotor Blog\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/gearmotors-for-conveyors\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2013\\\/11\\\/bodine-gearmotors-for-conveyors07470035-coveryor_crop.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2019-08-08T14:11:19+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2020-05-13T22:15:45+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.bodine-electric.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/fe298426e0e58166836c4430a5afda8d\"},\"description\":\"Learn how to find the right size, speed, and type of gearmotor for your conveyor application. 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