Why are stepper motors used instead of conventional rotary motors?
Steppers turn a given amount for every electrical input pulse, which is useful in positioning applications. More specifically, permanent-magnet stepper motors include magnets on the rotor that align with the electromagnetic field moved by sequentially energizing and de-energizing stator coils. This causes stepping action and incrementally moves the rotor for angular motion. Depending on design, their resolution is 15 to 0.9 rotational degrees per step. Precision leadscrews downstream maintain this finer positioning. Their bearing systems also handle radial and thrust loads, and are preloaded to withstand reversing loads on the leadscrew to prevent lost motion.
