Pin It

How It Works: Electric Motors

Learn what the differences are between brushed and brushless electric motors

by Justin Fink

Power tools use electric motors. In this "How It Works" article, senior editor Justin Fink describes the differences between brushed motors and a new technology, brushless motors. Both types of motor rely on a combination of magnets and electromagnets to create rotation. The design of a brushed motor requires a physical connection between two of the parts, which creates friction and a subsequent amount of wasted energy. A brushless motor has no such connection, so no energy is wasted as the motor operates. A related article appears in FHB #226 under the "Tools & Materials" department.

requires Adobe Reader
(Download for free)

From Fine Homebuilding226 , pp. 18-19 March 8, 2012

Stay connected with Fine Homebuilding

Special Sections

2013 HOUSES Awards

Remodel of the Week by Marvin

Fine Homebuilding’s Remodeling Showcase

Breaktime Discussions

Rastra Block Fraud Shed roof over deck The $6000 House: Header Games Gutter Drains frp on painted bath wall Leaking addition to solid brick home.Outdoor "Floating" Bench Anchor questions Pine Board and Batton finishing All discussions...

Product Finder: Related Products

(1 user review) Makita - LXDT01Z 18V Cordless Brushless Impact Driver
The LXDT01Z 18V cordless and brushless impact driver from Makita also comes equipped with a built in LED light.

(1 user review) Milwaukee - M18 FUEL 2603-22 18V Cordless Brushless Drill Driver
Milwaukee's M18 FUEL brushless drill driver comes with 2 speeds and a built-in LED light

DeWalt - DCF895L2 20V Max Cordless Brushless Impact Driver
DeWalt's 20V Max brushless impact driver features 3 speeds and is equipped with a battery fuel gauge indicator