8MSA4M.E3-86 B&R 8MSA4M Motor Unit

Description

Product Model: 8MSA4M.E3-86
Product Brand: B&R (Beckhoff / B&R Automation)
Product Series / Category: 8MS Synchronous Motor (8MSA4M line)

Product Features:

• Compact, high-speed synchronous motor optimized for automation tasks
• Winding thermal time constant ~64 min; integrated thermistor protection
• Modular design for ease of integration within B&R ecosystems
• Rated torque ~8.0 Nm, with self-cooling and multi-turn encoder option

Product Role & System Fit

The 8MSA4M.E3-86 is a synchronous motor in B&R’s 8MS series, specifically within the 8MSA4M (size 4, “M” variant) family. It is designed to form part of motion systems in automation — acting as the actuator that translates electrical input into precise mechanical torque, typically under closed-loop control with angular feedback.

In a full automation system, this motor pairs with a servo drive (e.g. ACOPOS family) that controls current and voltage, monitors feedback (encoder or resolver), and closes the loop on position, speed, or torque. In B&R-based architectures, these motors integrate smoothly with B&R motion control software, parameter sets, and hardware modules.

Because the 8MS family shares mechanical interfaces and mounting strategies across frame sizes, migrating between variants or replacing units is easier when the motors conform to the same mounting envelope and electrical approach.

This E3-86 variant signals a particular slot in B&R’s catalog: “E3” winding/feature set, “-86” variation. In practice, whether the variant has a particular encoder, tuning, or insulation option depends on exact build.

Applications & Industry Context

The 8MSA4M.E3-86 is well suited to applications demanding high dynamics, moderate torque, and compactness. Common use cases include:

• Robotic axes or joints (especially mid-size axes)
• Indexing tables, rotary stages, or conveyors with fine positioning
• Machine tools (auxiliary or secondary axes)
• Packaging / assembly machines where speed and precision drive productivity
• OEM machinery built around B&R or Beckhoff ecosystems

Because it integrates with B&R’s control and tuning frameworks, it’s especially attractive in plants already standardized on B&R hardware and software. In retrofits or upgrades, replacing older motors with 8MS variants allows for better diagnostic visibility, standardized commissioning, and future scalability.

Technical Features & Benefits

Here are some of the standout technical features and advantages of 8MSA4M.E3-86 (based on data from B&R catalogs and vendor listings):

Thermal Behavior & Protection
The motor has a thermal time constant of roughly 64 minutes — meaning it warms slowly and tolerates thermal load transients. It also includes a winding thermistor to detect overtemperature and interface with the drive to shut down or reduce load if needed.

Rated Torque & Voltage
Vendor documentation (Changxin) lists 8.0 Nm as a “rated torque” for this variant, and nominal voltage of 330 V. That gives engineers a baseline for matching drive current and mechanical load. Because it’s part of 8MSA4, the B&R 8MSA4 catalog contains performance curves, and the broader 8MSA3/8MSA4 series manual includes winding and speed-torque charts.

Cooling & Mounting
This motor is usually self-cooling (without external fan) in standard environments, though forced cooling variants might exist. Changxin lists “cooling method: self-cooling.”  Modular mounting design makes it easier to service or swap units without major structural changes.

Encoder Option
Changxin mentions ENdat multi-turn encoder as an option for this model, indicating support for high-precision, absolute position feedback. That allows single-turn or multi-turn absolute positioning — beneficial in quick recovery or power-down scenarios.

High Speed Capability
WakeIndustrial’s product listing mentions max operation speeds toward 12,000 rpm for this motor.That speed capability supports high dynamic performance in many motion axes.

Robust Design & Materials
The motor employs neodymium permanent magnets to deliver compact torque. Its insulation, paint, and body are designed to resist environmental degradation (such as moisture or vibration). The size and weight are reported: ~5.6 kg.

Altitude & Derating
The motor is rated for installation to altitudes up to 2,000 m. However, derating is advised above ~1,000 m to avoid overheating.

All told, the 8MSA4M.E3-86 offers high performance in a mid-frame size, with integrated protection and precision features.

Technical Specifications

Here’s a compiled spec table for 8MSA4M.E3-86, based on the sources available:

Because B&R publishes full 8MSA4 datasheets (e.g. winding, speed curves, bearing life) in their catalog, you should cross-check your unit’s serial or variant to get exact values.

Installation & Maintenance Insights

To get robust, long-term performance out of 8MSA4M.E3-86, the following tips and best practices help reduce issues in the field:

• Mounting & Alignment
  Mount the motor on a rigid, vibration-damped structure. Ensure precise shaft alignment to minimize radial/axial load on bearings. Consider mechanical preloading strategies if coupling tolerances demand it.
• Cooling / Ventilation
  While the standard design is self-cooled, it’s crucial to ensure good ambient airflow. Enclosures should have venting or airflow paths. If operating near rated limits or heavy duty cycles, forced air or fan enhancements may help.
• Encoder & Feedback Wiring
  For ENdat or other feedback signals, use shielded twisted-pair wiring, avoid parallel runs with power cables, and maintain proper ground reference and termination.
• Electrical Parameter Setup
  In your servo drive, use the matching motor parameters: torque constant, current limits, feedback scaling, and thermal behavior. Because the motor includes a thermistor, tie that into drive monitoring so that overheating protection is active.
• Start-up & Commissioning
  Begin with low-speed (jog) tests. Validate feedback correctness, direction, and loop stability. Ramp gradually to full speed, checking current, torque margin, and thermal behavior.
• Maintenance & Inspection
  Periodically inspect bearings (vibration, noise), check encoder health, sample temperature under load, ensure connectors remain tight and free of corrosion. Clean ventilation paths and exterior surfaces to avoid thermal insulation by dust.
• Spare / Replacement Strategy
  Because 8MS motors share standard mechanical mounting within the series, having a spare 8MSA4M motor (or compatible variant) helps with quick swaps. Store parameter sets, torque curves, and mechanical drawings to speed replacement.
• Altitude / Derating Considerations
  If installed above 1,000 m elevation, derate torque or limit thermal load to allow for reduced cooling capacity.

Implementing these strategies helps ensure the motor meets its intended duty cycle, lifespan, and reliability.