Find HS Code and trade information for micro motor

Micro Motor

A micro motor is a small electric motor, generally defined as having a rotor diameter of less than 20 millimeters. These motors are characterized by their compact size, low weight, and high precision. They are utilized in a vast range of applications requiring miniaturization, automation, and accurate control.

Materials

Micro motors are constructed from a variety of materials, selected based on performance requirements and cost considerations. Common materials include:

• Magnets: Neodymium (NdFeB), Samarium Cobalt (SmCo), Ferrite – determine the motor's strength and operating temperature range. NdFeB magnets offer high strength but are sensitive to temperature.
• Windings: Copper is the predominant material for windings due to its high conductivity. Litz wire (multi-strand insulated copper wire) is often used to reduce skin effect at higher frequencies.
• Shaft: Stainless steel, often hardened, is used for durability and resistance to corrosion.
• Housing: Plastics (e.g., nylon, polycarbonate) are common for lightweight applications. Metal housings (e.g., aluminum, steel) are used for higher structural rigidity and heat dissipation.
• Bearings: Miniature ball bearings (steel) or sleeve bearings (bronze, plastic) support the shaft and reduce friction.
• Commutator/Brushes (DC motors): Carbon or graphite brushes are used for electrical contact in brushed DC motors.

Purpose

The primary purpose of micro motors is to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy in a small form factor. They provide controlled motion for various devices and systems.

Function

Micro motors function based on the principles of electromagnetism. A current-carrying conductor within a magnetic field experiences a force, causing rotation. Key functional components include:

• Stator: The stationary part of the motor, containing magnets or windings to create a magnetic field.
• Rotor: The rotating part of the motor, containing windings or magnets that interact with the stator's field.
• Commutator/Electronic Control: In DC motors, the commutator reverses the current direction to maintain continuous rotation. In brushless DC (BLDC) motors, electronic control achieves the same effect.
• Bearings: Reduce friction and support the shaft.

Usage Scenarios

Micro motors are found in a wide array of applications, including:

• Consumer Electronics: Smartphones (vibration motors, camera autofocus), wearables, toys, game controllers.
• Medical Devices: Surgical robots, insulin pumps, dental drills, hearing aids.
• Automotive: Power windows, windshield wipers, fuel pumps, active suspension systems.
• Robotics: Small robots, drones, actuators, grippers.
• Industrial Automation: Precision positioning systems, micro-pumps, valves.
• Aerospace: Gimbal systems, camera stabilization, miniature actuators.
• HVAC: Blower fans, valve control.

Common Types

Several types of micro motors are available, each with distinct characteristics:

• DC Brushed Motors: Simple, inexpensive, and widely used. Require brushes for commutation, which have limited lifespan and generate electrical noise.
• Coreless DC Motors: Offer higher speed, lower inertia, and longer lifespan compared to brushed DC motors. More expensive.
• Brushless DC (BLDC) Motors: Highly efficient, long lifespan, and quiet operation. Require electronic control for commutation.
• Stepper Motors: Provide precise positioning control by dividing a full rotation into discrete steps.
• Voice Coil Motors (VCM): Linear motors offering high precision and fast response. Used in autofocus systems and positioning applications.
• Piezo Motors: Utilize piezoelectric materials to generate motion. Offer extremely high precision and resolution.
• MEMS Motors: Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems motors, extremely small and used in specialized applications.

Micro motors can encompass a variety of types based on their power output, construction, and application. The following HS codes may be relevant, depending on the specific characteristics of the “micro motor” in question.

• 8501.10.20.00: This code covers electric motors and generators (excluding generating sets), specifically motors of an output not exceeding 37.5 W, and synchronous motors valued not over $4 each. This is applicable if the micro motor is synchronous, has an output of 37.5 W or less, and its value does not exceed $4. The total tax rate is 61.7%, comprised of a 6.7% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.
• 8501.40.20.20: This code applies to other AC motors, single-phase, with an output exceeding 37.5 W but not exceeding 74.6 W, including gear motors. If the micro motor is a single-phase AC motor within this power range, this code is applicable. The total tax rate is 58.3%, consisting of a 3.3% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.
• 8412.80.10.00: This code covers other engines and motors, and parts thereof, specifically other engines and motors: spring-operated and weight-operated motors. If the micro motor operates using spring or weight mechanisms, this code is relevant. The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprised of a 0.0% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.
• 8412.80.90.00: This code applies to other engines and motors, and parts thereof, specifically other engines and motors: other. If the micro motor does not fall into the specifically defined categories within 8412.80, this code may be applicable. The total tax rate is 55.0%, consisting of a 0.0% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.

Regarding HS code 8503.00.75.00 and 8503.00.95.20, if the micro motor is being imported as parts for motors under 18.65W or other parts of motors, these codes may also be relevant. The total tax rate for 8503.00.75.00 is 61.5% and for 8503.00.95.20 is 83.0%. Please note that for HS code 8503.00.95.20, there is a specific mention of a 25% additional tariff for steel and aluminum products.

It is important to determine the precise specifications (power output, type of motor, materials used) to ensure accurate classification.