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31 | Servo Motors Stepper motors excel in applications that require a combination of accurate positioning, tight speed control, and low-speed torque. Conversely, servo motors offer a better solution for applications requiring greater speed with higher torque, such as heavy-duty robotics and CNC machining. Servo motors are not a single type of device, as they can be designed with almost any AC or DC motor capable of closed-loop control. Servos can also be used in linear motion, continuous rotation applications, and positional control. The most basic servo system comprises a motor, a control circuit, and a simple feedback device like a potentiometer. Unlike the stepper motor, a servo motor is always a closed-loop system. Servo motor designs can range from very simple to highly sophisticated, with hugely complex digital algorithms that provide ultra-fine control for applications such as multi-axis industrial robots. Piezoelectric Motors Piezoelectric motors differ significantly from all the motors previously discussed in this article. This type of motor uses piezoelectric materials— substances that are mechanically stressed when exposed to an electrical current. The properties of piezoelectric materials are well understood, allowing them to be precisely machined to provide predictable and controllable linear or rotational motion when electricity is applied. There are several popular designs for piezoelectric motors, including one category that can perform very much like a stepper motor. Piezoelectric motors are immune to electromagnetic interference and are often used in environments where other motors would be unviable. Their benefits include high-precision positioning, unpowered stability, the ability to be manufactured in very small sizes and unusual shapes, and high thermal resistance. Conclusion When considering motor designs for movement and positioning, electrical motors extend beyond the basic conversion of electrical power into rotational force. From the precision and efficiency of linear actuators and motors to the exacting control provided by stepper and servo motors and the unique capabilities of piezoelectric motors, solutions are available for nearly every application. These options enable more advanced, reliable, and adaptable systems in industries ranging from manufacturing to robotics, showcasing the pivotal role of specialized motor designs in advancing motion control. As the demand for precision and versatility in motion and positioning grows, these specialized motors are examples of the evolution of electrical motor technology, ensuring that whatever the application, there exists a motor tailored to meet its demands.