JLCMC Blog

Selection Principles

Comparing Brushless Motors and Stepper Motors: Principles, Structures & Applications

We have many machines around us that have electric motors to operate, including simple tools and complex robots. Brushless DC (BLDC) motors and stepper motors are two popular options for high precision and performance. They are both electrically commutated motors and have no physical brushes, but operate in different ways and are appropriate for different applications. Key Takeaways The advantages of BLDC motors are high-speed, smooth, continuous operation, and high efficiency. Stepper motors can be u......

Sep 07, 2026

Power Transmission

What Are Pillow Block Bearings? Definition, Working Principle & Applications

Key Takeaways A pillow block bearing is a self-contained bearing unit that combines a rolling-element bearing insert with a rigid housing, designed for shaft support on a flat mounting surface with the shaft axis parallel to the mounting plane. The housing provides structural alignment and load distribution, while the bearing insert handles radial and limited axial loads. Common locking mechanisms include set screws, eccentric collars, and adapter sleeves; each suits different shaft tolerances, vibrat......

Sep 03, 2026

Selection Principles

DC Motor vs. Stepper Motor: What Are They and How Do They Differ?

To clearly distinguish between DC motors and stepper motors, this article uses brushed DC motors as the primary reference for comparison. A brushed DC motor is typically well suited for continuous rotation, high-speed operation, and variable-speed control, while a stepper motor is commonly used for low-speed positioning, indexing, and holding torque at standstill. When combined with an encoder and an appropriate controller, a brushed DC motor can also be used for closed-loop positioning. The right cho......

Sep 01, 2026

Selection Principles

Pillow Block Bearing Size Charts, Dimensions, and Measurements

Pillow block bearings combine a rolling-element bearing with a mounted housing, making them the default choice for supporting rotating shafts in industrial equipment. Selecting the wrong size or mounting style leads to premature failure, misalignment, and unplanned downtime. This guide covers four common pillow block bearing unit configurations, including mounted bearing units and flange bearing units, provides actionable dimension reference tables, and outlines measurement, selection, and replacement......

Sep 01, 2026

Sensors & Control

A Complete Guide to DIN Rail Terminal Blocks

Introduction In a control cabinet, field wiring from sensors, switches, valves, and other equipment must be connected to PLC I/O, power supplies, relays, and protection devices. Without a defined termination point, wiring becomes harder to trace, test, and maintain. DIN rail terminal blocks provide a structured interface between field wiring and internal cabinet circuits. Depending on the application, a terminal strip may include feed-through, PE, disconnect, fuse, distribution, or multi-level termina......

Aug 31, 2026

Sensors & Control

How to Choose Between Screw, Spring, and Push-In Terminal Blocks

Introduction The connection method is more than a choice between a screw, a spring, or a push-in mechanism. It determines how clamping force is generated, how the conductor is retained, how the connection responds to vibration and temperature changes, and how much time is required for installation and maintenance. Screw-clamp, spring-clamp, and push-in terminal blocks can all provide reliable electrical connections when correctly specified. The difference is how each design achieves that connection an......

Aug 31, 2026