Harmonic AC Motor VS Harmonic DC Motor

2025-11-17

HONPINE specializes in high-precision joint motor technology, with Harmonic AC motors and Harmonic DC motors being two of its major product series. Both Harmonic AC motors and Harmonic DC motors come with built-in harmonic reducers, high-precision encoders, and frameless torque motors. However, they differ in various aspects such as structure, application scenarios, and performance characteristics. This article will help you understand the differences between HONPINE's Harmonic AC motors and Harmonic DC motors.


1. Structure and Power Supply  


The Harmonic DC motor adopts a highly integrated built-in driver and operates on a DC power supply of 36–48V. In contrast, the Harmonic AC motor uses an external driver and operates on an AC power supply of 220V.


2. Performance Differences  


The Harmonic DC motor is also referred to as a harmonic joint motor or robot joint motor. Its greatest advantages lie in its high torque, lightweight design, and plug-and-play functionality.  

The Harmonic AC motor is also known as a harmonic rotary actuator or harmonic servo actuator. Compared to the Harmonic DC motor, it offers higher precision and rigidity but is heavier in weight.


3. Application Scenario Differences  


Harmonic DC motors are commonly used in collaborative robots, service robots, medical robotic arms, AGV/AMR robotic arms, educational robots, and more.  

Harmonic AC motors are often applied in CNC machinery, heavy-duty rotary platforms, precision machining and positioning equipment, automated heavy-duty indexing mechanisms, and similar applications.  


Specific selection should be based on architecture, electrical systems, integration methods, and performance priorities. When making a purchase, HONPINE's technical team provides one-on-one support.

Both Harmonic AC motors and Harmonic DC motors are highly integrated, modularly designed modules, which help reduce development cycles and assembly difficulties for machinery manufacturers. Harmonic AC motors are more oriented toward industrial applications, while Harmonic DC motors are better suited for robotic applications.

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