Brushed vs. Brushless: The Ultimate Duel between Efficiency and Lifespan in the Field of Electric Motors
In the field of motors, brushed motors and brushless motors are like two major camps, fiercely competing on the track of efficiency and lifespan.
In terms of efficiency, the advantages of brushless motors are fully demonstrated. It adopts electronic commutation technology, eliminating the friction loss between the brush and the commutator, and the energy conversion efficiency can usually soar to 90% -95%. Taking the application of electric vehicles as an example, brushless motors operate efficiently, allowing electrical energy to be more fully converted into power and improving range. On the other hand, in brushed motors, the friction between the brush and commutator during operation is constant, and the contact resistance causes energy to be lost in vain. The efficiency often hovers around 70% -80%, which is somewhat inadequate in scenarios where energy efficiency is strict.
When it comes to lifespan, the difference between the two is even more evident. Brushless motors have no problem with brush wear, and their lifespan is mainly determined by the durability of the bearings. Under normal operating conditions, they can work continuously and stably for about 20000 hours, with a regular usage time of up to 7-10 years. They perform excellently in equipment that requires long-term stable operation, such as industrial automation production lines. Brushed motors are deeply troubled by the wear and tear of electric brushes and commutators. Electric brushes usually need to be replaced after 2000 to 5000 operating hours, and commutators are also prone to problems. This not only frequently interrupts the operation rhythm of the equipment, increases maintenance costs, but also greatly compresses the overall service life, usually only 2-3 years.
Overall, in this ultimate showdown between efficiency and lifespan, brushless motors have surpassed brushed motors in all aspects through technological innovation. However, brushed motors are not without a foothold. Their simple structure, low cost, and large starting torque still play an important role in some cost sensitive and low control requirements basic application scenarios. But with the advancement of technology, the demand for efficient and long-life motors is increasing, and brushless motors are constantly expanding their application scope, becoming the best choice in many high-end and precision fields.