Maxon motor powers Antarctic ice core drill

The British Antarctic Survey contacted maxon motor with a requirement for a powerful motor with high torque in a small diameter to fit in their ice core drill. They needed to be able to vary the speed and get constant torque even at a slow speed; yet still be able to get the maximum torque.

Maxon suggested a standard off-the-shelf maxon brushless DC 45mm 250W motor and a GP52 planetary gearhead. The expectation was to modify this for use in the field with a product from the Heavy Duty range to manage the high vibration, low temperature and high efficiency required for this type of application; but the off the shelf combination has proved to be more than capable.

Watch the video to learn more about this project.