The strength of windscreen wiper motors lies in the precise selection of drive technology, which is always cost-optimised. These DC motors with integrated gearboxes offer a proven combination of reliability, performance and economy that has been perfected over decades in the automotive industry.
Windscreen wiper motors: Proven technology from the automotive industry
Windscreen wiper motors are specially developed DC motors with integrated worm gears that are designed for continuous operation under extreme conditions. In the automotive industry, these electric motors have to function reliably at temperatures from -40°C to +80°C and complete millions of cycles.
The design of windscreen wiper motors is optimised for durability and freedom from maintenance. The integrated worm gear offers high reduction ratios in a compact design. The self-locking property of the worm gear ensures that the motor stops in any position without the need for a brake.
The quality standards of the automotive industry guarantee maximum reliability for windscreen wiper motors. Extensive tests under extreme conditions ensure that these DC motors also function reliably in demanding industrial applications.
Practical example: Tour address sheet applicator in the graphics industry
An illustrative example of the successful use of windscreen wiper motors can be found in the graphics industry at the Aargauer Zeitung newspaper in Aarau. At the end of the newspaper production process, the newspapers, which are tied into handy packets, are given an address label. A comparison is made between the data on the route sheet and that in the dispatch system.
If the details match, the parcel is transported via a conveyor belt to a Post Office mesh trolley. Otherwise, the error must first be corrected. For this application, a cost-effective but reliable drive was needed that could move the conveyor belt precisely.
The choice fell on a windscreen wiper motor that met all the requirements: sufficient torque, compact design, high reliability and an attractive price. The DC motor with integrated gearbox proved to be the perfect solution for this industrial application.
Technical properties of windscreen wiper motors
Windscreen wiper motors offer specific technical properties that make them interesting for many industrial applications. The integrated worm gear enables high torques at low speeds. Typical reduction ratios are between 1:50 and 1:200, allowing torques of 10 to 50 Nm to be realised.
The operating voltage of windscreen wiper motors is typically 12V or 24V DC, which enables easy integration into industrial control systems. The power consumption is moderate and is between 2 and 8 amps, depending on the load.
The service life of windscreen wiper motors is impressive. At least 1.5 million cycles are required in the automotive industry, which often corresponds to an operating life of 10-15 years in industrial applications. This longevity makes windscreen wiper motors an economical solution.
Areas of application for windscreen wiper motors in industry
Windscreen wiper motors are suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. Wherever cost-effective DC motors with high torque and low speed are required, windscreen wiper motors can be an optimal solution.
Typical applications can be found in conveyor technology, where disc wiper motors drive conveyor belts, turntables or lifting devices. In the packaging industry, they are used for sealing machines, labellers or palletising systems.
Windscreen wiper motors have also found their place in building technology. They drive blinds, awnings, gates or ventilation flaps. The self-locking nature of the worm gear is particularly advantageous here, as no additional brakes are required.
Cost benefits of windscreen wiper motors
The biggest advantage of windscreen wiper motors is their attractive price-performance ratio. Due to the high quantities produced in the automotive industry, these DC motors can be offered at very favourable prices. A comparable industrial motor would often cost three to five times as much.
The availability of windscreen wiper motors is guaranteed by the established supply chains of the automotive industry. Standard types are usually available from stock, which enables short delivery times. This is particularly advantageous for repairs or short-term projects.
The maintenance costs of windscreen wiper motors are minimal. The robust DC motors require no regular maintenance and can often be operated maintenance-free over their entire service life. This significantly reduces operating costs.
Adaptations and modifications to windscreen wiper motors
Although windscreen wiper motors are designed as standard components, adaptations can often be made for special applications. Mechanical modifications such as different shaft ends, flanges or mountings are usually possible without any problems.
Electronic modifications can extend the functionality of windscreen wiper motors. Encoders for position feedback, temperature sensors or special controls can often be integrated. It is also possible to adapt the operating voltage or torque within certain limits.
Customer-specific variants of windscreen wiper motors can also be realised for larger quantities. Manufacturers can often offer cost-effective customised solutions that are precisely tailored to the application requirements.
Limits of windscreen wiper motors
Windscreen wiper motors also have their limits, which must be taken into account when selecting the application. Precision is limited by the worm gear. Other drive technologies are better suited for high-precision positioning tasks.
The speed of windscreen wiper motors is limited by the high reduction ratio. These DC motors are not suitable for applications that require high speeds. The dynamics are also limited by the inertia of the gearbox.
The ambient conditions must be within the limits of the automotive specifications. Extreme temperatures, aggressive media or special cleanliness requirements may preclude the use of windscreen wiper motors.
Future prospects for windscreen wiper motors
The future of windscreen wiper motors in industrial applications looks bright. The trend towards cost-effective automation solutions plays into the hands of these robust DC motors. Particularly in emerging markets, where cost efficiency is more important than maximum precision, windscreen wiper motors have great potential.
Paradoxically, the electrification of the automotive industry could lead to even cheaper windscreen wiper motors. If fewer vehicles are equipped with conventional windscreen wipers, this could create excess capacity that benefits the industry.
New fields of application such as robotics or building automation offer additional market opportunities for windscreen wiper motors. These often require cost-effective, robust drives that do not have to offer maximum precision.
Conclusion: Windscreen wiper motors as a cost-effective alternative
Windscreen wiper motors offer a cost-effective and proven alternative for many industrial applications. The combination of automotive quality, attractive price and high availability makes these DC motors an interesting option for cost-orientated projects.
The application determines the drive technology - and windscreen wiper motors are the optimal choice for many applications. Their strengths lie in their robustness, durability and cost-effectiveness, while their limits lie in their limited precision and dynamics.
Are you looking for a cost-effective drive solution for your industrial application?
Antrimon's drive experts will be happy to check whether windscreen wiper motors are suitable for your project and help you make the right choice. You can find out more here:
