Motor Bases Information

Show all Motor Bases Manufacturers

Motor bases function as mounts for electric motors. The
devices are fitted with adjustable bolt patterns suitable for
different-sized motors that allow necessary position
modifications to the motor. Most bases fit NEMA motor sizes.
 
The base regulates the pressure in a belt-driven system. This is
critical for avoiding belt slippage and excessive strain that lead
to higher maintenance costs and additional downtime. Optimal
belt tension helps lengthen the service lifetime of components,
such as belts and motor bearings.
 
Types
 
Today's market features multiple types of motor bases with two primary categories, including:
 
Fixed-position adjustable bases: These adjust via manual alteration of the center distance that
separates a driver and driven pulleys. They allow pushing or pulling a motor into place to install or adjust
the belt. Once the belt is pulled over the pulley, single or multiple screws force the motor away from the
driven pulley until the desired tension level is attained. The mounting bolts are then tightened to complete
the process.
 
Base design ranges from simple, one-piece, formed plates to more complex models featuring Z-bars with
continuous welding to improve strength. Select versions correspond to NEMA mounting dimensions.
Fixed-position bases are preferred due to low initial costs.
 
The equipment is further broken down into the following classifications: 
 
Single-screw adjustable base possesses a central screw for tension positioning. As the screw turns, the
motor moves with the pulley center towards or away from the center of the driven pulley. The operational
simplicity offered by this device provides a reasonably-priced option for several applications.
 
Dual-screw positioning base has two adjustable screws placed beneath the motor feet. Its configuration
matches single-screw systems but with reinforced construction for extending the application range. In
comparison with the single-screw style, this type of setup supports greater flexibility in shaft alignment
and dual screws provide a robust method of maintaining alignment.
 
Specialized fixed-position bases feature mounting studs extending from slots. While performing tension
adjustments the nuts are loosened and the motor is lifted above the studs. If the nuts are loosened more
than was necessary, the motor will turn and shift closer to the driven pulley during the tightening process.
As a result the tension will exceed the required level and the mounting studs will experience excessive
strain when tightening the nuts.
 
Tension-controlling bases: The structures integrate internal or external tools that automatically alter the
center distance of a pulley of a running motor in response to load condition requirements.
 
Types of tension-controlling devices comprise:
 
Pivot bases rely on a motor's weight along with its direction of rotation for applying and controlling
tension. The motor is mounted on pivoting arms and is held in place with bolt holes and slots configured
to fit the frame. The strain in the belt increases with the distance of the motor from the pivoting shaft.
Once started, the motor's reaction torque extends the pulley's center distance and builds tension by
directing the pivoted arm downward. The arms move upward to decrease the center distance as the
operating load increases.
 
Spring-loading bases employ built-in springs to control belt strain. This unit features a motor positioned
on cross members connected to tubes. The formed carriage shifts towards or away from a driven member
in response to fluctuating load. The motor is bolted to the free-moving carriage. When the adjustment
screw is turned clockwise, the follower nut, spring, and carriage move in the direction opposite to the
driven pulley. After installing the belt, further rotation of the screw pushes the carriage to a point where the
belt is snug.
 
Conversion motor bases match newer, smaller motors after they have undergone rerating to
accommodate older mounts.
 
Heavy duty and custom-built bases serve specific purposes and applications. Heavy-duty versions
comprise reinforced construction and heavier materials to handle additional stress. Special gussets along
with cross braces are sometimes used in these units.
 
Selection
 
Fixed-position mechanisms are selected due to their cost advantage over higher priced tension-
controlling equipment. They are available in styles that are standard to NEMA mounting dimensions and
provide adequate belt tension control. However, such configurations have certain drawbacks, including: 
 
Without a movable plate for mounting, system alignment is performed when it is not operating. This
entails a certain amount of guesswork and is less optimal than making changes in dynamic mode.
When the motor is secured in position and the belt aligned, pulley center distance is locked in. If
belt tension is not adequate to drive a maximum load with no slippage, stress can lead to extra
wear of components.
Such structures face difficulty in dealing with load fluctuations and shock or vibrations.

Tension-controlling bases are more efficient to install and operate. They cope better with situations
involving variation in weight. These units hold the advantage in scenarios where many alterations are
needed due to location and environment, or where unique mounting requirements exist. They reduce the
time to perform changes and can mount motors vertically or horizontally.
 
Standards
 
Various standards and specifications apply to motors and their uses in combination with motor bases,
including:
 
NEMA MG 2 -- Construction, selection, installation and use of electric motors
NFPA 70 -- National Electrical Code
 
Image credit:
Global Industrial