The question “Which is better: a direct-drive or a geared actuator?” has no one-size-fits-all answer, it depends on the application. All motor systems need to deliver torque and rotational speed, but specific requirements vary widely. Some applications demand low-speed output with precise excellent dynamic control, while others require maximum torque in the smallest form factor. In this article, we break down the key considerations to help you choose the right actuator for your needs.

Axial clamping secures motor stators or rotors using mechanical compression, offering precise alignment, easy assembly, and chemical-free retention.

Alva Industries releases white papers on FiberPrinting™ motor tech for robotics, gimbals, marine thrusters, and prosthetics. Download now.

In this episode of Tech Torqs, we break down how these two similar but distinct effects impact motor smoothness, and how designers can reduce them to achieve better performance, especially in permanent magnet motors.

In this episode, Alva’s Design Engineer Matteo Leandro explains how saturation limits torque, why traditional slotted motors struggle with it, and how SlimTorq™ motors are engineered to avoid it, maintaining high performance even under heavy loads.

Trondheim, Norway - 18 June 2025 - ALVA Industries (Alva) will showcase a live demonstration at Automatica 2025, powered by Elmo. This demo features Alva’s SlimTorq frameless motors, driven by Elmo’s high-performance servo drive technology.