Hybrid stepping motors and drives

Hybrid stepping motors derive their name from the fact that their construction is a hybrid between permanent magnet and reluctance motor topologies. Their inherent positional accuracy makes them suitable for a wide range of motion control and industrial positioning applications. This article explains the construction and operation of the hybrid stepping motor. Power converter topologies are presented which are commonly used in hybrid stepping motor drives. Methods are discussed of enhancing performance beyond that achievable by traditional methods. It is shown that the fall in cost of power electronic devices is enabling further enhancements of stepping motor drive technology, broadening the range of applications for this class of motor.