1. Rotary Components

Stepping motors

Stepping motors rotate at a fixed angle in response to pulse signals, enabling high-precision starting,stopping, and positioning through open-loop control. MinebeaMitsumi offers two types: hybrid stepping motors (permanent magnet + magnetic material) for enhanced positioning accuracy, and PM stepping motors (permanent magnet) for easy miniaturization. The hybrid lineup includes models with encoders, hollow shaft types, and external linear types. The PM lineup features small-diameter types (from φ3.4 mm) and high-speed types. We provide flexible customization to suit specific applications. For details, refer to the "Custom Guide.“

Additionally, our electric grippers equipped with hybrid stepping motors combine fingertip-like sensitivity with exact precision. We also launched standalone drivers for hybrid stepping motors and motors with integrated drivers.

Applications

  • Automotive

  • Robotics

  • Semiconductor Equipment

  • Textile & Pharma Machinery

  • Housing Valves

  • Security Cameras

  • Gaming Consoles

  • Smart Toilets

  • Rice Cookers

  • Cameras

  • Printers

  • Multifunction printers

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FAQ

What are the advantages and disadvantages of stepping motors?
The main advantage is high-precision positioning via a simple open-loop control setup, while the disadvantage is the risk of a stall during high-speed rotation.
Because position sensors are unnecessary, they offer a low-cost, simple configuration. They excel in holding torque at a standstill and deliver high torque at low speeds. However, torque drops sharply at high speeds, requiring caution against stalls caused by overloads, heat generation, and vibration.
What is a stall, and why does it occur?
A stall occurs when the motor's rotation fails to keep up with operation commands (pulse signals), resulting in a loss of synchronization.
Main causes include sudden acceleration or deceleration, overloads exceeding the motor's capacity, and external physical impacts. Click here for details.
What is the difference between 2-phase and 5-phase stepping motors?
The difference lies in their internal structure (number of phases). 2-phase motors are highly versatile, whereas 5-phase motors provide higher precision and lower vibration.
2-phase motors generally feature a 1.8-degree step angle. 5-phase motors offer fine, smooth rotation with a 0.72-degree step angle. MinebeaMitsumi's lineup includes widely applicable 2-phase stepping motors, as well as 3-degree step hybrid stepping motors.
What is needed to operate a stepping motor?
Three components are required: a controller to issue commands, a driver to convert current, and a power supply.
The controller (e.g., PLC or microcontroller) outputs pulse signals. The driver receives these signals and converts them into the high current required to drive the motor.
What is the lifespan of a stepping motor?
They offer a long lifespan due to the absence of consumable parts like brushes. The main life-limiting factor is bearing degradation.
The standard expected lifespan depends on the bearing grease's service life, generally estimated at 20,000 to 30,000 hours. However, excessive shaft loads or high-temperature environments will reduce this lifespan.

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