space flight

Heat management in space applications is critical. Special Order Vacuum Rated Motors can be constructed using high temperature tolerant components. Please contact customer support for more information. 

No system is 100% efficient, heat is generated while the coils of the motor are energized, and heat becomes problematic while using a conventional motor in a vacuum application for two primary reasons: diminished motor performance, and shortened lifespan of the motor.

The magnetic field strength of permanent magnets decreases as heat increases, which translates to poor motor performance. This directly effects the torque output of the motor; and at certain temperatures, the motor will cease to function at all. Secondly, heat drastically effects the life of bearings used in the motor and therefore shortens the lifespan of your whole system.

In a vacuum environment gas is removed leaving little to convect the heat and repeal it away from the motor. Although conventional motor designs take heat convection into account, when a conventional stepper is operated in a vacuum environment, heat quickly builds up and overcomes the motor.

To overcome this challenge we’ve incorporated magnets constructed from an alloy with high temperature tolerance, and also bearing with high temperature tolerant grease rated from -80°C to 204°C. Vacuum motors are also wound specifically for vacuum applications.