A BLDC motor, or Brushless DC motor, is a type of electric motor that operates using direct current (DC) electricity and electronic commutation instead of mechanical brushes. Unlike traditional brushed DC motors, BLDC motors do not use brushes to switch the current direction within the motor. Instead, an electronic controller performs this task using feedback from sensors (or sensorless techniques) to determine the rotor's position.
BLDC motors are widely used in industrial automation, robotics, electric vehicles, drones, home appliances, medical devices, and HVAC systems, thanks to their high efficiency, precise speed control, and long operational life.
Brushless design: No physical commutator or brushes, reducing wear and maintenance.
High efficiency: Less energy loss due to the absence of friction from brushes.
Low noise and vibration: Ideal for applications requiring quiet operation.
Compact size and lightweight: High torque-to-weight ratio.
Precise control: Enables exact speed, position, and torque regulation.
The stationary part of the motor, made of laminated steel cores and copper windings.
Contains three-phase windings energized by the controller.
The rotating part equipped with permanent magnets.
Its rotation is synchronized with the stator’s magnetic field.
Used to detect the rotor’s position to enable accurate commutation.
Replaces the mechanical commutator.
Controls the sequence of power supplied to stator coils based on rotor position.
Brushless DC (BLDC) motors are classified based on the placement of the rotor and stator, as well as the type of control method and construction. These different configurations offer unique advantages depending on the application. Below are the main types of BLDC motors explained in detail:
In this configuration, the rotor with permanent magnets is located inside, and the stator with windings surrounds the rotor.
Higher heat dissipation from the stator to the housing
Higher torque-to-inertia ratio
Faster acceleration and deceleration
Compact and efficient design
CNC machines
Robotics
Medical devices
Servo systems
Industrial automation
In this type, the stator is placed in the center, and the rotor rotates around the stator, forming the outer shell of the motor.
Higher moment of inertia
Smooth and stable rotation
Lower RPM with higher torque
Better for cooling via outer surface
Ceiling fans
Drones
E-bikes
HVAC blowers
Compact household appliances
This type uses trapezoidal back-EMF and block (six-step) commutation.
Simple control circuitry
Good for cost-sensitive applications
Higher torque ripple
Power tools
Pumps
Entry-level electric vehicles
This version uses sinusoidal back-EMF and is commutated with a sinusoidal current waveform.
Smooth and low-vibration operation
Precise torque control
Requires more complex controllers
High-end automation
Medical and aerospace applications
Servo systems
Equipped with Hall effect sensors or encoders to detect rotor position.
Accurate and stable operation even at low speeds
Higher cost due to sensors
Better for applications requiring positioning or start-stop motion
Robotics
Printers
Industrial machinery
Uses back-EMF detection to determine rotor position, eliminating the need for sensors.
Lower cost and complexity
Less reliable at very low speeds
Ideal for high-speed applications
Drones
Fans
Pumps
High-speed tools
Uses only one phase winding. Simple structure but limited in power and torque.
Low power consumption
Easy to control
Not suitable for high-performance applications
Small household devices
Miniature fans
Toys
Most common configuration with three phase windings, providing balanced and efficient torque.
High efficiency and power
Widely adopted standard
Requires complex controllers
EVs and e-bikes
Robotics
HVAC systems
Industrial automation
The choice of BLDC motor type depends on the specific application requirements such as speed, torque, precision, space constraints, and control complexity. Understanding these types allows engineers and product developers to select the most suitable motor that balances performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Whether you need a compact motor for a drone, a high-torque drive for an industrial robot, or a quiet fan motor for HVAC systems, there's a BLDC motor type designed for your purpose.
A Brushless DC (BLDC) motor operates by using electronic commutation instead of mechanical brushes and a commutator. It is powered by direct current (DC) but behaves like an AC motor in terms of its rotating magnetic field. BLDC motors are designed to offer high efficiency, precise control, and long operational life, making them ideal for a wide range of modern applications.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how a BLDC motor works:
A BLDC motor typically consists of the following components:
Stator: The stationary part of the motor that contains the electromagnetic coils or windings.
Rotor: The rotating part, embedded with permanent magnets.
Controller (Electronic Speed Controller - ESC): Manages the commutation, or switching of current in the stator coils.
Sensors (optional): Often Hall effect sensors or encoders are used to detect rotor position for accurate timing.
The fundamental principle behind the operation of a BLDC motor is the interaction between the stator’s rotating magnetic field and the rotor’s magnetic field. When current flows through the stator windings, it generates a magnetic field that attracts or repels the permanent magnets on the rotor, causing it to rotate.
A DC power source supplies energy to the motor through a controller.
The controller energizes the stator windings in a specific sequence. Instead of using brushes to switch the current, semiconductor switches (like MOSFETs or IGBTs) electronically direct the current flow through the motor phases.
To determine when to switch phases:
Sensor-based BLDC motors use Hall sensors to detect the position of the rotor magnets.
Sensorless BLDC motors estimate the position using back-EMF (voltage generated by the moving rotor).
The energized stator coil creates a magnetic field that interacts with the rotor’s permanent magnets. This force causes the rotor to align with the rotating magnetic field, creating torque.
As the rotor moves, the controller continuously updates which coils are energized based on the rotor’s position, maintaining a rotating magnetic field. This keeps the rotor spinning smoothly and efficiently.
There are two common methods used in BLDC motor commutation:
The back-EMF waveform is trapezoidal.
Simplified control method using six switching steps.
Slightly higher torque ripple.
The back-EMF is sinusoidal.
Smooth operation with reduced noise and vibration.
More complex control electronics.
Type | How It Works | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Sensor-based | Uses physical sensors to track rotor position | Reliable at all speeds | Higher cost and complexity |
Sensorless | Estimates rotor position using back-EMF | Lower cost, simpler | Less reliable at low speeds or start-up |
Austria stands as a hub for precision engineering and advanced manufacturing, especially in the field of Brushless DC (BLDC) motors. Known for their efficiency, durability, and quiet performance, BLDC motors are integral in sectors like automotive, automation, medical technology, aerospace, and renewable energy. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top 25 BLDC motor manufactuers in Austria, detailing their company profiles, main products, and competitive advantages.
Maxon Motor is a world-renowned leader in precision drives and motion systems, with a strong Austrian presence serving central and eastern Europe.
BLDC motors
Precision gearheads
Servo drives
Control electronics
Swiss-Austrian engineering excellence
High-performance micromotors for robotics and medical devices
Customization services
ATB, part of Wolong Group, is a long-established Austrian BLDC motor manufactuer with over 100 years of history in electric motor production.
Industrial BLDC motors
High-torque BLDC solutions
Custom-designed motion systems
Large-scale production capability
Strong presence in industrial and energy sectors
Focus on efficiency and sustainability
Fronius, known globally BLDC motor manufactuer for its inverter technology, also develops integrated BLDC motor systems, particularly for energy-efficient welding and charging solutions.
BLDC motors for inverters and battery systems
Power electronics
Industrial automation components
Industry 4.0 innovation
High-efficiency energy solutions
Long-term reliability
With headquarters in Eggelsberg, B&R is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer in automation systems, integrating BLDC motors into their drive and control architectures.
Servo and BLDC motors
Motion control systems
ACOPOSmulti servo drives
Seamless integration into PLC and automation systems
Precision motion
Global support network
Based in Linz, this leading BLDC motor manufactuer specializes in compact, high-efficiency motors used in portable and stationary systems.
Compact BLDC motors
Generator-integrated motors
Custom motor design
High power-to-weight ratio
Quiet operation
Custom-built solutions
Focused on smart mechatronic solutions, Mechatronik Austria is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer and delivers BLDC motor systems for automation and robotics.
BLDC motors for mechatronics
Integrated servo systems
Compact actuators
Emphasis on compact, energy-saving designs
Ideal for smart automation
Strong R&D capabilities
A division of TQ-Group, e+motion is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer and develops high-performance BLDC motors and motion control units, catering to medical and industrial applications.
BLDC motor kits
High-dynamic drive systems
Integrated motion modules
Low-noise, compact motors
Ideal for exoskeletons, med-tech, and AGVs
German-Austrian engineering synergy
Known for its automation clamping and gripping systems, Schunk is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer and also integrates high-torque BLDC motors in advanced industrial applications.
BLDC-driven gripping units
Servo-electric actuators
Compact motor modules
Precision and robustness
Ideal for automation and handling technology
Modular design
W&H is a global BLDC motor manufactuer in medical and dental drive technology, producing ultra-compact BLDC motors for surgical applications.
High-speed BLDC motors for dental handpieces
Integrated motor systems for surgery
Sterilizable drive systems
Quiet, vibration-free operation
Advanced sterilization compliance
Miniaturized engineering
STÖGRA is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer and provides reliable drive technology with a robust line of BLDC motors suited for precision applications.
BLDC motors and controllers
Compact servo drives
Stepper and hybrid motors
Cost-efficient solutions
High reliability
Short delivery times
KEBA, based in Linz, is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer in industrial automation and robotics, using BLDC motors in motion control units.
Drive systems with integrated BLDC motors
Robotic drive solutions
Automation controllers
Advanced control and motion algorithms
Seamless system integration
Energy-optimized drives
A global EMS (Electronics Manufacturing Services) BLDC motor manufactuer with a focus on drive electronics, ZOLLNER integrates BLDC motors into advanced assemblies.
BLDC motor control boards
Integrated systems for medical and aerospace
Sensor-motor assemblies
High-quality assembly standards
Cross-industry expertise
ISO-certified processes
With over 100 years of motor innovation, Elin Motoren is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer and offers custom-built BLDC motors for energy and transportation sectors.
High-efficiency BLDC motors
Synchronous machines
Traction drives
Tailored large-scale solutions
Strong focus on renewable energy
High-torque, low-maintenance designs
Eberle is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer and specializes in automation solutions and builds customized BLDC motor systems for conveyor and handling systems.
Integrated BLDC motion units
Modular automation systems
Smart motor controllers
Flexible system design
Plug-and-play motor solutions
Intelligent diagnostics
As a leading BLDC motor manufactuer in traction drives for railway and electric vehicles, TSA develops powerful BLDC motor solutions.
Traction BLDC motors for rail and EV
Power converters
Cooling-integrated motor systems
High-durability motors for extreme environments
Optimized for high voltage
Proven in global transport systems
I&T is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer and offers compact BLDC drives for special purpose machinery and automation equipment.
BLDC motors and driver boards
Mechatronic subassemblies
Compact power drives
Flexible prototyping
Tailored engineering
Compact, silent operation
Though not a BLDC motor manufactuer itself, many BLDC startups and research initiatives are housed here, fostering innovation in motor control and efficiency.
Prototype BLDC drives
Motor simulation and testing
R&D partnerships
Home to disruptive motor tech startups
Access to academic and technical research
Government-supported innovation funding
Focused on e-mobility, this leading BLDC motor manufactuer develops BLDC motors for light electric vehicles, scooters, and e-bikes.
Hub-type BLDC motors
E-bike controllers
Lightweight drive systems
Compact, lightweight designs
Long battery range
Urban mobility optimization
ZF is a global tier-1 automotive BLDC motor manufactuer with Austrian operations focusing on powertrain electrification.
Automotive BLDC motors
e-Drive systems
Electric axle drive units
OEM-grade performance
Scalable production
Cutting-edge automotive innovation
MTA is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer and focuses on integrated motion solutions including servo and BLDC motors for automation and CNC machines.
BLDC servo motors
Industrial motion systems
Driver-integrated motors
Reliable control electronics
High-torque compact units
Support for EtherCAT and CANopen
Innomot is an Austrian leading BLDC motor manufactuer focused on compact BLDC motors for robotics and laboratory automation.
Miniature BLDC motors
Robotic arm drives
Linear actuators
Small form factor
Ultra-quiet operation
Rapid product customization
A branch of Baumüller Group, a leading BLDC motor manufactuer and offering full system integration with BLDC motors for process automation and machine tools.
High-performance BLDC motors
Modular drive systems
Software-controlled automation drives
Energy-efficient systems
Easy integration into complex machines
Advanced motion software support
Part of Eaton Corporation, Moeller is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer and delivers automation components including BLDC motors for building systems and industrial controls.
BLDC motors for HVAC and automation
Control relays
Programmable logic controllers
Global service network
Proven electrical reliability
Versatile compatibility
Siemens’ Austrian division is a leading BLDC motor manufactuer and develops motion control systems with integrated BLDC motor applications across industries.
SIMOTICS BLDC motors
SINAMICS drive systems
Integrated automation platforms
Industry-standard motor performance
Extensive integration ecosystem
Scalable solutions
Danfoss engineers highly efficient motor systems for HVAC, refrigeration, and motion applications, leveraging BLDC technology.
BLDC compressor drives
HVAC motor systems
BLDC pump and fan drives
Energy-saving designs
Ideal for green building systems
Low-maintenance operation
Brushless DC (BLDC) motors have become a preferred choice across various industries due to their superior efficiency, performance, and reliability. Unlike traditional brushed motors, BLDC motors operate without physical brushes, leading to several key benefits. Below is a comprehensive list of the major advantages of BLDC motors:
BLDC motors offer efficiency ratings of 85–90% or higher, significantly better than brushed DC motors. Since there is no brush friction, less energy is wasted as heat. This makes BLDC motors ideal for battery-powered applications such as electric vehicles, drones, and cordless tools.
The absence of brushes means there are no mechanical parts to wear out, drastically extending the motor's lifespan. With minimal friction and no sparking, BLDC motors can operate for tens of thousands of hours without major maintenance.
BLDC motors can operate at very high speeds (up to 100,000 RPM in some designs) with excellent torque characteristics. The torque remains consistent across a wide range of speeds, making them ideal for high-performance applications like industrial automation, CNC machines, and electric propulsion.
Using advanced electronic controllers, BLDC motors allow for precise control of speed, torque, and position. This is especially valuable in applications like:
Robotics
Medical devices
Servo systems
Camera gimbals
With no brushes making contact, BLDC motors produce less noise and vibration. The smooth commutation of current ensures quieter performance, making them perfect for:
HVAC systems
Home appliances
Dental and surgical tools
Thanks to their high power-to-weight ratio, BLDC motors deliver powerful performance in a compact form factor. This makes them suitable for applications where space and weight are limited, such as in:
Drones
Wearable devices
Portable electronics
BLDC motors have superior heat dissipation capabilities. In most designs, the stator is fixed and connected to the motor housing, which helps efficiently transfer heat away from the windings. This allows for higher continuous current ratings without overheating.
Without brushes or commutators, BLDC motors are less sensitive to dust, dirt, and humidity. They are ideal for environments where traditional motors may fail, such as:
Industrial plants
Mining operations
Outdoor robotics
BLDC motors are easily integrated with digital control systems like CAN, EtherCAT, and Modbus, and can be programmed to operate in sync with other equipment in smart factories, automation lines, and IoT environments.
BLDC motors generate less electrical noise because there is no arcing from brushes. This is crucial in sensitive applications such as:
Medical imaging devices
Telecommunication equipment
Aerospace electronics
Advantage | Benefit |
---|---|
High Efficiency | Reduced energy consumption, longer battery life |
Long Lifespan | No brush wear, low maintenance |
High Speed & Torque | Excellent dynamic performance |
Precise Control | Suitable for complex automation and robotics |
Quiet Operation | Ideal for noise-sensitive environments |
Compact Size | Perfect for space-constrained applications |
Better Cooling | Handles higher loads with minimal overheating |
High Reliability | Works in dusty, humid, or extreme conditions |
System Compatibility | Easy to integrate with digital controllers |
Low EMI | Safe for sensitive electronics and medical use |
In conclusion, BLDC motors offer a combination of performance, durability, and control precision that makes them a superior alternative to traditional motor technologies in nearly every application domain.
Brushless DC (BLDC) motors have revolutionized modern motion systems across multiple industries due to their high efficiency, reliability, quiet operation, and precise control capabilities. Their versatility makes them suitable for everything from household gadgets to advanced aerospace systems. Below is a detailed overview of the most common and impactful applications of BLDC motors:
BLDC motors are widely used in:
Electric cars
Electric scooters
E-bikes
Electric wheelchairs
High torque at low speeds
Silent operation
Energy efficiency for longer battery life
Regenerative braking compatibility
BLDC motors are a key component in:
Quadcopters
Fixed-wing UAVs
Camera drones
Lightweight and compact design
High RPM and quick response
Smooth and stable operation
Conveyor systems
Pick-and-place robots
CNC machines
3D printers
Factory automation systems
Precise speed and position control
High reliability in continuous duty
Low maintenance requirements
Washing machines
Refrigerators
Vacuum cleaners
Air conditioners
Ceiling and exhaust fans
Quiet and smooth operation
Energy-efficient
Extended motor life
Ventilators
CPAP machines
Surgical instruments
Dental drills
Medical pumps
Ultra-quiet performance
High precision and reliability
Compact and sterilizable designs
Heating and cooling fans
Blowers
Air purifiers
Smart thermostats
Smooth speed control
Reduced energy consumption
Quiet indoor operation
Electric screwdrivers
Drills
Saws
Grinders
High torque-to-weight ratio
No brush replacements required
Stable high-speed operation
Printers
Hard drives
Cooling fans for servers and PCs
Compact size
High-speed and low noise
Efficient cooling with minimal power
Autonomous aircraft control systems
Missile guidance mechanisms
Satellites
Radar systems
Lightweight with high reliability
Withstands harsh conditions
Accurate control in mission-critical systems
Automatic irrigation valves
Drones for crop monitoring
Electric tillers
Motorized construction tools
Energy-efficient operation in remote locations
High torque for heavy-duty tasks
Long service life
Electric boats
ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles)
Marine pumps
Corrosion-resistant design
Smooth torque delivery
Efficient in battery-powered systems
Treadmills
Electric bikes and rowers
Adjustable beds and recliners
Smooth motion control
Long-lasting, maintenance-free use
Quiet operation for home use
Automated window shades
Smart locks
Motorized curtains
Robot vacuum cleaners
Compact and energy-saving
Seamless integration with smart systems
Low operating noise
Wind turbine pitch control
Solar panel tracking systems
High reliability
Minimal maintenance in remote areas
Efficient power use for sustainable energy
Sector | Application Examples |
---|---|
Automotive | EVs, e-bikes, electric scooters, power steering |
Aerospace & Defense | Drones, satellites, aircraft actuators |
Consumer Electronics | Vacuum cleaners, fans, smart devices |
Medical | Ventilators, pumps, dental tools |
Industrial | CNC, robotics, factory automation |
HVAC | Fans, blowers, air conditioning systems |
Power Tools | Drills, grinders, electric saws |
Renewable Energy | Wind turbines, solar tracking systems |
Marine | Electric boats, underwater ROVs |
Smart Home | Motorized curtains, smart locks, robot vacuums |
BLDC motors are the cornerstone of modern electromechanical systems, enabling smart, efficient, and reliable motion in virtually every industry. From powering a drone in the sky to driving a medical pump in a hospital, BLDC motors continue to expand their reach with ever-evolving technology.A BLDC motor works by creating a rotating magnetic field in the stator through electronically switched DC current, which in turn drives the permanent magnet rotor. With no brushes, electronic commutation, and precise control, BLDC motors represent the most efficient and durable motor technology available for everything from household fans to electric cars and robotic arms.
Austria continues to push the frontier of BLDC motor technology, offering an incredible spectrum of innovation, energy efficiency, and application flexibility. Whether for robotics, transportation, or industrial automation, these manufacturers ensure world-class quality and performance.
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