High current brushless dc motors power supply options

Using Arduino Motors, Mechanics, Power and CNC
#1

Hi everyone, I've recently been looking into making a linear actuator using the O-Drive high performance robot control system with an Arduino (just to see how it goes) and I have some questions in regards to power.

So I know with brushed or brush-less DC motors you can end up pulling a high amount of current, the ones I'm looking at are are 70A max current. I've made a robowars robot just recently with motors that pull a max of 60A each and it was easy to provide this with a Lipo with the ratings of 4000mAh 40C which means it can output up to 160A at it's limit. However I don't want to just use a lipo to power these motors due the having to charge them when they run out during testing. (I have two to alternate use, but it's a hassle I don't really want to be bothered with)

So my question is, how would you recommend powering these motors? Should I just stick with the Lipo's or is there a better solution that can come from a powerpoint?

Thanks

(Also I was considering steppers for the diy linear actuator but I calculated I'd need at least 7200 RPM and it doesn't seem easy to calculate the RPM (without load) without just buying it and testing it?)

#2

High power PSUs do exist but new they may cost A LOT more than a few Lipos. I can't suggest anything definite because you didn't specify a voltage. You can get used 12V supplies up to about 100A relatively cheaply as they're taken from computer servers.

Steve

#3

Sorry for not mentioning the voltage, motors will range in the 18-24v range, unless I find something lower. I was thinking maybe a car battery in series might do?

#4

Depending on the duty cycle you may be able to use a small battery with a small charger. The battery supports peaks of power for short periods (minutes) and the charger recharges it slowly but surely.

#5