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1

Motors

Brushed vs. brushless DC motor guidance
What is the difference between brushed and brushless motors?
A brushed motor uses brushes and a mechanical commutator to switch current, while a brushless motor uses electronic commutation with a controller.
What are the advantages of brushed motors?
Lower upfront cost, no controller required, simple design and faster development, and resistance to EMI or signal interference.
What are the disadvantages of brushed motors?
Lower efficiency, brushes wear out over time, and shorter overall lifespan compared to brushless designs.
When should I use a brushed motor?
Short duty cycles, backup or emergency systems, compact setups without room for electronics, and cost-sensitive applications.
What are the advantages of brushless motors?
More efficient, less maintenance, better speed and torque control, and easier integration of diagnostic capabilities.
What are the disadvantages of brushless motors?
Higher upfront costs, a controller is required, and more complex system integration.
Why are brushless motors more efficient?
Electronic commutation eliminates brush friction and improves energy conversion. Placement of windings on the stationary stator also allows for more winding area and improved heat transfer to the environment.
2

Power Distribution

Relays, PDUs and system configuration
What is a solid-state relay (SSR)?
A solid-state relay is an electronic switching device that controls power without moving mechanical contacts.
How does a solid-state relay work?
An SSR uses semiconductor components to switch electrical loads on and off in response to a control signal.
What is a power distribution unit (PDU), and what does it do?
A power distribution unit (PDU) is a device that manages, protects, and routes electrical power throughout a platform, safely distributing power from a source to multiple systems or loads.
How configurable are AMETEK PDS power distribution units?
Our power distribution units are highly configurable, enabling customers to tailor power management, protection, load distribution, and system interfaces to meet the unique requirements of their aircraft or platform.
What is the difference between primary power and secondary power?
Primary power refers to the main electrical power source that supplies a system or vehicle, while secondary power supports specific functions, provides power conversion, or serves as a backup when needed.
Can AMETEK PDS provide custom aerospace power distribution solutions?
Yes. AMETEK PDS designs power distribution products tailored to specific aerospace and defense platform requirements.
3

Actuators

Linear and rotary actuation for flight-critical systems
What is a linear actuator?
A linear actuator converts electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic power into straight-line motion.
How do you control a linear actuator?
Linear actuators are controlled using switches, controllers, or automated control systems.
What is a rotary actuator?
A rotary actuator converts electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic power into controlled rotational motion.
What is the difference between linear and rotary actuators?
Linear actuators produce smooth and precise straight-line motion for high-tolerance applications, while rotary actuators are best for continuous, high-speed rotational applications requiring no travel distance limits.
Where are actuators used in aerospace systems?
Actuators are used throughout aerospace applications to control and automate the movement of flight surfaces, landing gear, cargo and cabin doors, valves, thrust reversers, and other flight critical and non-critical components.
What type of motors do PDS actuation systems use?
AMETEK PDS designs actuators with both brushed and brushless motors.
Are PDS actuators certified for flight critical applications?
Yes, AMETEK PDS actuators are certified to the globally recognized RTCA DO-160 standard.

Still have questions?

Talk to our applications engineering team for platform-specific guidance on motors, power distribution and custom solutions.

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