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FAQ

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General informations

An air motor, or pneumatic motor, is a motor that gets its mechanical power from gas expansion, usually compressed air. When pressurized air is injected, it pushes moving parts inside the motor, creating a rotational movement. This movement can then be used to drive a tool or a machine.

To learn everything about pneumatic motors, consult our complete guide.

Pneumatic motors come in different types depending on torque, speed, precision, and working environment:

  • Vane motors: compact, robust, and versatile. Ideal for portable tools, robots, and industrial equipment.

  • Radial piston motors: provide high torque at low speed. Used for machining machines, winches, and heavy-duty applications.

  • Axial piston motors: compact and suitable for high speeds. Perfect for mobile equipment and air-converted systems.

  • Turbine motors: very high speed, low torque. Suitable for grinders and high-speed drills.

  • Oscillating motors: precise motion over small angles. Ideal for positioning and automation.

  • Gear motors: robust with constant starting torque. Used in demanding industrial environments.

Each type meets specific needs, from high torque to extreme speed or precise motion.

To choose your pneumatic motor, start with your application: what power, torque, and speed are required? If you know two of these parameters, you can calculate the third using the formula:
Power (W) = Torque (Nm) × Speed (rpm) / 9.55.

Then, select from the range the torque/speed combination that fits your needs. Also, ensure that your compressed air supply can provide the required flow for the motor.

For more advice and application examples, check our blog or contact our experts.

To make the right choice, you should refer to the motor’s application.

If the motor is used manually, a handle is often necessary for safe control of start and stop:

  • Safety handle: with a trigger to easily control start/stop.

  • Progressive control handle: allows ergonomic and continuous speed control.

These handles prevent unintended starts.

  • Right/left reverser: manually changes the rotation direction.

If the motor is to be integrated into a machine, the choice depends on size and weight:

  • Straight motor: compact, lightweight, and easily controllable remotely.

  • Bevel gear motor: 90° output to save space and optimize mechanical installation, with possible additional reduction.

For more details, check our options and accessories sections.

The maximum operating air pressure for a modec pneumatic motor should not exceed 6.2 bar . It is essential to ensure that the air supply matches the motor's specifications to operate efficiently and safely.
Additionally, the compressed air should have a dew point temperature below 10°C to prevent moisture issues.

By chosing modec, you benefit from fast delivery times.

Standard pneumatic motors and flanges are usually available within 3 days. Regarding others models or special configurations, please contact our team to get an exact lead time to your order.

Performance & Benefits

modec air motors are particularly beneficial in several industries due to their unique properties and capabilities. The key industries that benefit the most from modec air motors include:

  • Oil & Gas Industry: Compliant with ATEX standards, ideal for explosive environments.

  • Chemical & Pharmaceutical Industry: Resistant to high temperatures and chemicals, suitable for environments requiring hygiene and sterilization.

  • Automotive Industry: Robust and versatile for various industrial applications.

  • Food Industry: Resistant to humid and dusty environments, easy to clean.

  • Printing Industry: Solvent-resistant and usable in explosive atmospheres.

  • Textile Industry: Suitable for particle-laden atmospheres thanks to their compact and durable design.

  • Naval & Shipbuilding Industry: High performance and moisture-resistant for maritime applications.

These industries appreciate modec air motors for their flexibility, reliability, and robustness in challenging environments.

  • Safety in explosive atmospheres: no sparks or overheating, making air motors perfectly suited for hazardous environments, especially ATEX zones.

  • Robustness and reliability: designed to withstand intensive use, air motors operate reliably in all types of environments, with no risk of overheating or damage.

  • Compact and lightweight: at equivalent power, an air motor is 4 to 6 times lighter and more compact than an electric motor.

  • No sensitivity to electromagnetic fields: suitable for use even in the most sensitive environments, such as nuclear facilities.

  • No water hammer effect: unlike some hydraulic motors.

  • Flexibility: speed and torque are easily adjustable to cover a wide operating range. Ideal for repetitive start/stop cycles, with no risk of damage in case of stalling.

  • User-friendly: no electrical qualifications required, easy to install and operate.

  • Cost-effectiveness: reduced installation and operating costs, easy and low-cost maintenance.

To learn everything about pneumatic motors, download our online guide.

Yes, as long as it is designed for this environment.
Modec waterproof pneumatic motors are suitable for underwater applications thanks to:

  • Stainless steel materials to prevent corrosion.

  • High-performance seals preventing air leaks.

  • Air evacuation system allowing long maintenance-free operation.

Need a waterproof motor for your application? Contact our experts for more details.

To replace your  motor or find an equivalent, follow these simple steps:

  1. Identify the required power: use the power of your current motor if known, or calculate it from torque and nominal speed (Power (W) = Torque (Nm) × Speed (rpm) ÷ 9.55).

  2. Look for an equivalent power range: start by filtering motors with power closest to your needs.

  3. Check your air supply: ensure the airflow and pressure are compatible with the selected power range.

  4. Compare key characteristics: starting torque, maximum torque, no-load speed, dimensions, flange, shaft type, specific options (straight or right-angle head, integrated control handle…).

💡 Tip: consult datasheets and don’t hesitate to contact our experts for personalized advice.

Safety & Usage

  1. Wear the required PPE, including hearing protection. Note, however, that you can choose the silencer option to reduce noise levels.

  2. Check that the air supply hoses are in good condition and suitable for the required pressure, flow rate, and lubrication.

  3. Use whip-check devices.

  4. Work in a clean, well-lit environment.

  5. Have the necessary knowledge and skills to handle pneumatic tools safely.

  6. Use a safety device that integrates several essential functions: emergency stop, automatic downstream circuit purge, pressure drop detection, and automatic air supply shut-off. Our SAT Box perfectly meets these requirements.

  7. Perform maintenance at least once a year based on your usage, and only use original parts and maintenance kits approved by modec.

To ensure proper operation of a pneumatic motor, it is essential to supply clean, dry, and properly lubricated air.
We recommend using an FRL unit (Filter – Regulator – Lubricator) to guarantee effective filtration, stable pressure, and consistent lubrication.

Use an oil specifically suited for pneumatic motors, in the correct quantity, such as our MODEC-OIL-AC149, which provides anti-oxidation and anti-corrosion protection and is food safe.

Finally, always check that your air pressure, flow rate, and air quality are compatible with the selected motor to avoid loss of performance or premature wear.

If you have any doubts, feel free to contact our experts — they will be happy to assist you.

With modec, there’s no need to modify your machine: simply choose the right shaft and right flange for quick and easy installation.

Modec offers several shaft types (keyed, splined, square, tapered, threaded…) to ensure a compatible and efficient connection with your equipment.
Flanges provide a stable and secure mounting, depending on your setup — or may be unnecessary if your machine already has its own support.

We offer both standard configurations and custom solutions to fit your exact needs.

Need help choosing the right configuration? Contact our support team — our experts will guide you.

Cost & Maintenance

modec recommends performing maintenance once a year or every 700 operating hours to ensure that the motor maintains its original performance.

  • Maintenance should be carried out by trained and qualified personnel.
  • Use original parts provided in modec maintenance kits.
  • Refer to the video tutorials available on our Youtube channel.
  • Motor maintenance should be performed in a clean and suitable environment.

By following these recommendations, you ensure optimal performance and an extended service life for your compressed air motor.

  1. Safety First : disconnect the air supply and wear your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  2. Disassembly : remove motor components following the manual instructions to prevent damage.
  3. Inspect Components : check bearings, seals, and other parts for wear or damage.
  4. Cleaning : remove dirt and debris, then dry all components before reassembly.
  5. Replace Worn Parts : wwap any damaged or worn parts to ensure proper motor operation.
  6. Reassembly : reassemble the motor carefully, respecting the manual’s step-by-step instructions.
  7. Proper Lubrication :Apply MODEC-recommended oil to ensure smooth operation and extend motor life.
  8. Final Testing :Check for air leaks and confirm the motor runs correctly before putting it back into service.

💡 Tip: Watch our YouTube tutorials for step-by-step guidance and practical demonstrations.

 

 

  1. Choose the right motor
    Select a motor suited to your torque and speed requirements.

  2. Respect the supply pressure
    Do not exceed the maximum pressure (usually 6.2 bar / 90 psi).

  3. Use a quality FRL unit
    Install a Filter, Regulator, and Lubricator (FRL) with 40 μm air filtration to protect the motor.

  4. Lubricate close to the motor
    Keep the lubricator within 3 meters and use proper oil in the recommended amount, such as the MODEC-OIL-AC149

  5. Maintain correct temperature
    Operate within the manufacturer’s temperature range.

  6. Avoid prolonged idle operation
    Do not run the motor at no load and maximum speed for more than a few seconds.

  7. Perform regular maintenance
    Replace vanes, bearings, and exhaust filters periodically.

  8. Proper storage

    • Store in a dry environment.

    • Add 10 drops of oil to the air inlet and run the motor briefly before storage and before restarting.

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