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2022-07-08When choosing a tool for ourselves, we make many decisions about its performance. Find out when to opt for a tool with a brush or brushless motor.
How do brush motors differ from brushless motors?
The electric motor is a key component of any energy-powered device. It is responsible for generating power (so-called mechanical energy), which is the impetus for starting work. Depending on the needs and models, tools are equipped with brush or brushless DC motors (the so-called BLDC motor). How do they work? How do they differ from each other? Which type to bet on during your purchasing decisions? You will find answers to all the above questions in the following article.
Brush and brushless motor – how they work
Both brush and brushless motors operate on a very similar principle. Their functioning is based on the interaction of the magnetic fields of the stator or rotor. In a brush motor, the winding on the rotor has magnets attached externally – in a brushless motor, the copper winding on the stator has magnets integrated into the rotor itself.
Differences can also be seen in the design of the two types of motors. The simple analog design of the former, versus precisely controlled current via an integrated circuit.
Motor with or without brushes?
A significant impact on the performance of both types of motors is primarily due to the design, which includes brushes or rotors (rotors). Classic models are usually equipped with carbon brushes and a commutator. These two elements, interacting with each other, trigger the process of magnetic field formation. However, the brushes require maintenance and, with heavy use, also periodic replacement.
In the case of rotors, they function in an assembly with specialized neodymium magnets and bearings, where the coils are responsible for supporting an alternating magnetic field. The field interacts with the magnets and sets the motor rotor in motion. This type of design is almost faultless – but does that mean it has no drawbacks?
Brush and brushless power tools
The market offers a wide range of power tools equipped with brush and brushless motors. The GRAPHITE brand has developed devices in various categories that are perfect for the garden, construction site or carpentry workshop.
- Those equipped with brushless motors are dedicated to professionals and people who use their tools frequently. Examples include the Energy+ 18 Li-Ion professional brushless pruner 58G029 GRAPHITE or the Energy+ 36V, Li-Ion, 350 mm cutting width brushless cordless scythe 58G035 GRAPHITE.
- Devices based on the functioning of brush motors are more common and often recommended for domestic and semi-professional use. They usually work well where value for money is important. A great example is, for example, the Energy+ 18V, Li-Ion, 190 km/h cordless leaf blower 58G031 GRAPHITE or the Energy+ 18V 58G040 GRAPHITE cordless glue gun.
Advantages and disadvantages of brushless motor
However, there is no motor that is trouble-free, of excellent quality, efficient and at the same time at a good price. When buying a device, it is worth considering which features you care most about.
There’s no denying that brushless motors are considered in many ways more desirable than their brushed counterparts. Why is this the case?
- Brushless motors have 20% to even 30% higher efficiency.
- They are characterized by lower heat emissions.
- They require virtually no maintenance and are nearly trouble-free.
- They can run longer on a single battery.
- They feature a 10x longer lifespan.
- They are quieter in use.
Their biggest (and only) disadvantage is, of course, the price. Tools with a brushless motor are noticeably more expensive than those with a brush motor. However, if you take into account the intensity of use, the difference will certainly more than pay for itself.
Advantages and disadvantages of the brush motor
Devices equipped with brush motors are widely available in every specialty store and tool market. Surely everyone has a screwdriver or a lawnmower powered by this type of motor at home – perhaps even for many years. So what are the advantages, but also the disadvantages of this type of design solution?
- In favor of tools with a brush motor is certainly the attractive price.
- They also stand out for their simple design, which is easy to understand even for a layman.
- They are easy to repair, and parts are widely available.
Disadvantages of brush motors include lower efficiency and significant heat emission. You also have to reckon with replacing brushes at certain intervals.
Which type of engine will you choose?
However, the final decision is always up to the buyer. Sometimes it is not worth overpaying for tools that will be used occasionally. On the other hand, it is worth investing in those devices that are expected to last and perform for years.
GRAPHITE brand responds to the needs of all customers, and with dedicated service – guarantees the availability of parts for up to 10 years after the purchase of the device.
