1 Topic by pcm81 (edited by pcm81 2014-05-08 00:12:41)

  • pcm81
  • Member
  • Offline
  • Registered: 2013-05-11
  • Posts: 114

Topic: What stepper motors to get for RUMBA?

I realize there are many factors to consider when choosing a stepper motor. I am looking for advice on what stepper motors would be the best match with RUMBA controller.

I will be modding SD3, so this question actually has two parts:
1. What stepper motors, which fit SD3 form-factor would be the best ones to couple with RUMBA?
2. What are the best stepper motors to use with RUMBA regardless of form factor?

Are NEMA ratings sufficient enough to determine if a given stepper is a good fit for a given application or are NEMA specs too general and so other things need to be taken  into account?
I am thinking NEMA17 400stepp motors, but then there are things like half stepping etc to consider.
I'd love to see a simple couple paragraph explanation of different technologies involved and which are compatible with which controllers / firmware.

Does any one know what steppers are used in SD3?

I see nema17 motors with current ratings from 0.3 to 1.7A, so i guess NEMA rating is just the physical form factor, not the electrical specs?

Thanks ahead

EDIT:
on amazon i see 1.3A stepper with 57 in-oz rating and 1.7A with 58 oz-in rating. Something does not add up, unless the 1,7A stepper also turns faster... is there a reference table or a calculator for stuff like this?

2 Reply by wardjr

  • wardjr
  • wardjr
  • Moderator
  • Offline
  • From: Minnesota
  • Registered: 2013-06-10
  • Posts: 5,624

Re: What stepper motors to get for RUMBA?

If this were me I would use the current ones as I did my mods and see what is needed.  Holding torque is what I would look at first.  The Rumba will handle most anything you hook to it.  There are always better, stronger motors but the trade off isn't always worth the added expense and in the case of the x-axis the added mass.  It all depends on what your expectations for this modded printer are.  The guy you need to ask is Adrian just don't be disappointed when you get very technical responses with little opinion.  The good news is I bet he'll hand you enough info to help with your decision.  Just send him a PM and if he has the time he will help you out.
I wish I was more help it's just that there are so many options smile

Printit Industries Model 8.10 fully enclosed CoreXY, Chamber heat
3-SD3's & a Workbench all fully enclosed, RH-Slic3r Win7pro, E3D V6, Volcano & Cyclops Hot End
SSR/500W AC Heated Glass Bed, Linear bearings on SS rods. Direct Drive Y-axis, BulldogXL
Thanks to all for your contributions

wardjr's Website