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BLDC Motor Performance Calculator

Calculate brushless DC motor no-load RPM, stall torque, maximum efficiency, input power, and propeller thrust from Kv rating and electrical parameters

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Formula

N_0 = K_v × V, K_t = 60/(2π × K_v), T_stall = K_t × I_stall

K_vVelocity constant (RPM/V)
K_tTorque constant (Nm/A)
N_0No-load speed (RPM)
I_stallStall current (A)
R_mWinding resistance (Ω)

How It Works

Brushless DC (BLDC) motors are advanced electric motors using electronic commutation instead of mechanical brushes. They operate using a series of electronically switched magnetic poles created by permanent magnets in the rotor and electromagnetic windings in the stator. The key principle is using Hall effect sensors or back-EMF sensing to precisely control the motor's electronic switching sequence, enabling high efficiency, reliability, and precise speed control.

Worked Example

Consider a BLDC motor design with 12 stator slots and 14 rotor poles. Calculate the motor's electrical and mechanical characteristics: Electrical frequency = (Number of rotor poles × Mechanical RPM) / 120, Motor constant (Ke) = Peak line voltage / Mechanical RPM, Torque constant (Kt) = Phase current / Mechanical torque. For a motor running at 3000 RPM, with 14V peak line voltage and 5A phase current, the calculations would proceed step-by-step using these fundamental relationships.

Practical Tips

  • Always consider thermal management when designing BLDC motor systems
  • Use proper Hall effect sensor alignment for optimal commutation
  • Select appropriate wire gauge and insulation for high-performance applications
  • Implement adequate electromagnetic shielding to reduce noise and interference

Common Mistakes

  • Neglecting thermal limits of windings and electronic components
  • Improper magnetic pole alignment
  • Underestimating power electronics requirements
  • Ignoring mechanical load characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What advantages do BLDC motors have over brushed DC motors?

BLDC motors offer higher efficiency, longer operational life, reduced maintenance, better speed control, and higher power density compared to traditional brushed motors.

How do Hall effect sensors work in BLDC motors?

Hall effect sensors detect the rotor's magnetic position, providing precise timing signals for electronic commutation, enabling smooth and efficient motor operation.

What factors affect BLDC motor performance?

Key performance factors include magnetic circuit design, winding configuration, electronic controller quality, thermal management, and mechanical load characteristics.

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