What is Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor?
A hollow shaft stepper motor is a type of stepper motor that features a central hole (or hollow shaft) running through its rotor. This design allows various elements—such as wires, pipes, rods, or shafts—to pass through the motor’s center, making it ideal for applications that require integrated movement or simplified mechanical design.
Features of a Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor
A hollow shaft stepper motor offers unique design and functional advantages that make it ideal for a wide range of high-precision applications. Below are the key features that define this specialized type of motor:
1. Central Hollow Shaft Design
The most distinctive feature is the open, through-hole center.
Allows cables, rods, optical fibers, or fluid tubes to pass through the motor.
Supports integration with rotary encoders, slip rings, or sensor wiring.
2. High Precision Stepping
Operates in discrete steps, enabling precise angular positioning.
Common step angles include 1.8°, 0.9°, or even microstepping options for smoother motion.
Ideal for applications requiring accurate rotation control.
3. Compact and Integrated Design
Combines motor and shaft space to save room in tight or compact systems.
Reduces the need for additional coupling parts or external components.
Enhances design flexibility and simplifies mechanical assemblies.
4. Strong Holding Torque
Offers high static torque when stationary, making it ideal for holding loads in place without movement.
Suitable for vertical or load-bearing positions without external brakes.
5. Easy Integration with Sensors or Gears
The hollow shaft can directly accommodate optical encoders, gearboxes, or timing pulleys.
Reduces mechanical complexity and alignment errors.
6. Reliable Open-Loop Control
Often used without feedback systems, simplifying the electronics and control.
Some advanced models support closed-loop feedback for added precision.
7. Versatility in Mounting and Orientation
Can be mounted in multiple configurations due to symmetrical shaft design.
Adaptable for use in robotic arms, CNC machines, turntables, and other rotating systems.
8. Low Maintenance and High Durability
9. Energy Efficient
10. Customization Options
Available in various sizes (e.g., NEMA 17, 23, 34).
Custom hollow shaft diameters and lengths to suit specific applications.
How Does a Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor Work?
A hollow shaft stepper motor works on the same basic principle as a traditional stepper motor but with a unique through-hole shaft design that offers added flexibility in integration. Here's a clear breakdown of how it functions:
1. Electromagnetic Stepping Principle
Inside the motor are multiple coils (windings) arranged in phases.
These coils are energized in a specific sequence to create rotating magnetic fields.
The rotor (the rotating part of the motor) aligns with these magnetic fields.
Each time the current shifts to the next phase, the rotor “steps” forward by a precise angle (commonly 1.8° per step for a 200-step motor).
2. Hollow Shaft Functionality
Instead of a solid central shaft, a hollow tube runs through the center of the rotor.
This design allows wires, pipes, shafts, or sensors to pass through the motor.
The hollow shaft still rotates along with the rotor, allowing it to transmit torque and motion like a normal stepper motor.
It also makes it easier to integrate with rotary encoders, slip rings, or central drive shafts.
3. Step-by-Step Rotation
The controller sends pulse signals to the motor driver.
For each pulse, the motor moves one fixed step forward.
The more pulses sent, the further the motor rotates.
The rotation direction depends on the order of the energized phases.
4. Holding and Positioning
Even when not rotating, the motor can hold its position by keeping current in the windings.
This makes it ideal for applications where the load must stay in a fixed position without slipping.
5. Microstepping (Optional)
In advanced systems, microstepping divides each full step into smaller increments.
This creates smoother motion and better positional accuracy.
In Summary:
A hollow shaft stepper motor converts electrical pulses into precise mechanical movement, just like a regular stepper motor. However, its unique hollow center allows for more complex and compact system designs by letting components pass through the center of the motor while still providing accurate, step-by-step rotation.
This makes it an excellent choice for:
It’s a smart solution for any system needing precise control + design flexibility.
BesFoc Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor Kinds:
BesFoc is a prfessional Stepper Motor and Bldc Motor Manufacturer with 15 years experience, if you need any customized motors, click this link to contact us now!!!
Types of Hollow Shaft Stepper Motors
Hollow shaft stepper motors come in a variety of designs tailored to meet the specific needs of precision-driven systems. While they all share the signature central through-hole shaft, they differ in construction, performance, and applications. Below are the main types of hollow shaft stepper motors, each with unique characteristics.
1. Permanent Magnet (PM) Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor
Uses a permanent magnet rotor and a single stator winding.
Offers moderate resolution and low torque.
Simple and cost-effective, best for low-end applications or basic positioning systems.
Not commonly used in high-precision or industrial tasks.
2. Variable Reluctance (VR) Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor
Operates without permanent magnets; rotor is made of soft iron.
Provides high step resolution but lower torque.
Suitable for applications that prioritize speed and accuracy over torque, such as optical instruments and fine-tuned adjustments.
3. Hybrid Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor
Combines the features of both PM and VR motors.
Most common and widely used type in industrial applications.
Offers high torque, fine resolution, and excellent stability.
Available with microstepping and closed-loop feedback options.
Ideal for robotics, automation, CNC systems, and semiconductor equipment.
4. Closed-Loop Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor
Equipped with built-in encoders to monitor position in real time.
Eliminates missed steps and improves reliability.
Offers servo-like performance while retaining stepper motor cost efficiency.
Common in medical devices, robotic arms, and 3D printers where accuracy is critical.
5. Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor with Integrated Driver
Includes an onboard motor driver or controller, reducing wiring complexity.
Plug-and-play solution for quick system integration.
Suitable for compact machinery, portable systems, and smart automation platforms.
6. Frameless Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor
Delivered as rotor and stator kits, without an external frame.
Allows OEMs to directly integrate the motor into their mechanical design.
Perfect for custom equipment, robotic joints, or highly space-constrained environments.
7. Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor with Gearbox
Combined with a planetary or harmonic gearbox for higher torque and lower speed.
Maintains precision while handling heavier loads.
Used in rotary tables, indexers, and material handling systems.
8. Flat (Pancake) Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor
Ultra-thin profile with a wide diameter and central hole.
Designed for applications with limited axial space.
Common in camera systems, gimbals, and rotary stages.
Conclusion:
There are several types of hollow shaft stepper motors available to match various engineering challenges. Whether you need high precision, space efficiency, or heavy-load capabilities, there's a hollow shaft motor tailored to your application's unique requirements. Their adaptability and advanced motion control features make them an essential choice in today’s smart automation and robotic systems.
Top 20 Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor Manufacturers in China
When it comes to precision motion control, hollow shaft stepper motors are integral to countless industrial and automation applications. China has emerged as a global leader in manufacturing high-performance stepper motors, including specialized hollow shaft stepper motors that meet the rigorous demands of robotics, CNC machinery, 3D printing, and more. Below is a curated list of the top 20 hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturers in China, highlighting their company profiles, main products, and key advantages.
1. Leadshine Technology Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Shenzhen, Leadshine is a renowned hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer in the motion control industry with a global presence in over 50 countries.
Main Products
Advantages
Exceptional product stability
Global after-sales service
In-house R&D and manufacturing
2. Changzhou Fulling Motor Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Established in 2001, Fulling Motor is located in Changzhou, Jiangsu. The company is a leading hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer and specializes in stepper and BLDC motors and supplies to over 30 countries.
Main Products
NEMA hollow shaft stepper motors
Permanent magnet stepper motors
Integrated stepper motor drivers
Advantages
3. MOONS’ Industries (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Founded in 1994, MOONS’ is a technology-driven hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer focusing on motion control, intelligent lighting, and industrial automation solutions.
Main Products
Advantages
4. Shenzhen Just Motion Control Electromechanics Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Just Motion Control (JMC) is based in Shenzhen and has established itself as a reliable hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer of industrial-grade motion control systems.
Main Products
Hollow shaft stepper motors
Closed-loop stepper motors
Motor drivers and controllers
Advantages
5. Changzhou BesFoc Motor Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
With decades of manufacturing experience, BesFoc Motor is one of the trusted hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturers in the motor components sector.
Main Products
Advantages
Strong focus on OEM/ODM services
Low MOQ with high-quality assurance
Advanced CNC production lines
6. Shenzhen VEXTA Precision Motor Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
A hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer and specialized in high-precision motor components, VEXTA operates under strict quality control measures to ensure top-tier performance.
Main Products
Advantages
High torque in compact design
Suitable for medical and laboratory use
Custom design capabilities
7. Ningbo Haishu Shuangyuan Micro Motor Factory
Company Profile
A family-owned hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer with more than 15 years of experience, Shuangyuan focuses on precision mini motors for a variety of applications.
Main Products
Advantages
8. Zhejiang Leili Motor Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Leili Motor is a publicly listed company and one of the largest hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturers in China, serving clients in over 40 countries.
Main Products
Advantages
9. Changzhou Wanshsin Micro Motor Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Wanshsin is a hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer and specializes in customized motor solutions and is located in the heart of China’s motor manufacturing hub, Changzhou.
Main Products
Advantages
10. Shenzhen Zhaowei Machinery & Electronics Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Zhaowei is a high-tech hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer that focuses on precision drive systems and smart control.
Main Products
Hollow shaft precision stepper motors
Drive modules and gear motors
Integrated actuator systems
Advantages
11. Kegu Motor Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Kegu Motor is a hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer and specializes in the design and production of precision motors including customized hollow shaft models.
Main Products
Advantages
12. Changzhou JKONGMOTOR Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
As a professional hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer and known for flexible production and quick delivery, JKONGMOTOR offers innovative solutions tailored to automation needs.
Main Products
Hollow shaft stepper motors
Integrated stepper drivers
Motorized linear actuators
Advantages
13. Jiangsu DINGS' Electrical & Mechanical Technology Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
DINGS’ is a leading hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer and specializes in closed-loop stepper motor systems and offers advanced mechatronic integration.
Main Products
Advantages
14. Kinmore Motor Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
With over 20 years in the motor industry, Kinmore provides motor solutions to industries such as smart home, security, and automotive.
Main Products
Hollow shaft mini stepper motors
Brushed and brushless motors
Automotive actuator motors
Advantages
15. Shenzhen Pengchuang Weiye Technology Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
PCWY Technology is a hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer in automation components, providing cost-effective motion control solutions.
Main Products
Advantages
16. Changzhou Songyang Machinery & Electronics Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Songyang is a hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer and focuses on the production of motors for precise positioning systems and is ISO 9001 certified.
Main Products
Advantages
Industry-grade reliability
Flexible engineering solutions
Competitive turnaround times
17. Suzhou Micro Actuator Technology Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
A hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer in high-precision and miniaturized motor systems, Suzhou Micro serves tech and medical markets worldwide.
Main Products
Mini hollow shaft motors
Linear micro motors
Positioning platforms
Advantages
18. Wantai Motor (Changzhou) Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Wantai Motor is a globally recognized hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer for CNC and 3D printer motors, offering a wide range of stepper solutions.
Main Products
Advantages
19. Dongguan YCT Electronics Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Located in Dongguan, YCT is a hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer in electromechanical components used in automation and robotics.
Main Products
Advantages
20. Shanghai Sine Electric Co., Ltd.
Company Profile
Shanghai Sine is a full-solution hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturer for stepper motor systems and has a strong presence in both domestic and international markets.
Main Products
Advantages
Advantages of Hollow Shaft Stepper Motors
Hollow shaft stepper motors combine the precision of stepper technology with a versatile through-hole design, making them a popular choice in advanced engineering and automation. Here are the key advantages of using hollow shaft stepper motors:
1. Central Access for Integration
The hollow shaft allows cables, shafts, pipes, or optical fibers to pass directly through the center of the motor.
This simplifies the mechanical layout, especially in rotary platforms, robotic arms, and automated machinery.
2. Space-Saving Design
By eliminating the need for external couplings or routing systems, hollow shaft motors reduce the overall size of the mechanical setup.
Ideal for compact systems where space efficiency is critical.
3. Simplified Assembly
The ability to run components through the motor's center makes assembly and alignment easier and faster.
Reduces the number of mechanical parts, which lowers manufacturing complexity and maintenance needs.
4. Precise Positioning and Control
Like traditional stepper motors, hollow shaft stepper motor models provide accurate step-by-step rotation.
Perfect for applications requiring reliable motion control, such as robotics, 3D printing, and CNC machines.
5. Flexible Mounting Options
The symmetrical shaft design supports various installation orientations.
Can be integrated with slip rings, encoders, or gearboxes directly inside or through the hollow shaft.
6. Reduced Cable Stress
Cables or hoses that pass through the motor are protected and remain stationary, reducing twisting, bending, or damage.
Improves durability in rotating or continuously moving systems.
7. High Torque and Holding Power
Offers strong torque output per frame size, ideal for holding loads without movement when the motor is idle.
Useful in vertical lifting applications, positioning platforms, and indexers.
8. Versatile Application Range
9. Compatibility with Advanced Features
Easily combined with microstepping drives, closed-loop control, or servo-like enhancements.
Offers greater smoothness and precision in motion-critical applications.
10. Enhanced System Aesthetics and Cable Management
Internal cable routing through the hollow shaft leads to cleaner, more professional designs.
Reduces clutter and improves overall system reliability.
Applications of a Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor
A hollow shaft stepper motor is a precision-driven, compact, and highly adaptable motion control device used across many industries. Its unique through-shaft design allows engineers to create integrated, space-saving systems that maintain exceptional positioning accuracy. Below are the most common and high-value applications where hollow shaft stepper motors are widely used:
1. Robotics and Automation Systems
Rotary joints and arms: Wires, sensors, or air tubes can pass through the motor, enabling clean and flexible rotation in robotic arms and grippers.
Collaborative robots (cobots): The compact design helps reduce joint size while maintaining torque and control.
2. Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment
Used in wafer handlers, pick-and-place machines, and inspection stations.
The hollow shaft supports rotary encoders or vacuum lines for ultra-clean environments and precision movement.
3. CNC Machines and Indexing Tables
Ideal for rotary indexing, where the center hole allows cables or clamping fixtures to pass through the spindle.
Ensures high positional accuracy for automated drilling, milling, or component rotation.
4. Medical Devices and Imaging Equipment
Found in CT scanners, MRI beds, surgical robots, and lab automation tools.
The hollow shaft permits fiber optics, wires, or tubing to move through the motor safely and hygienically.
5. Camera Gimbals and Pan-Tilt Systems
Used in surveillance cameras, drones, and stabilization platforms.
The hollow shaft allows camera cables to pass through without tangling, enabling 360-degree continuous rotation.
6. Printing and Packaging Machinery
Supports rotary cutters, rollers, and label applicators.
Internal shaft access allows for tension control, pneumatic tubing, or sensor wiring directly through the motor.
7. Aerospace and Defense Systems
Utilized in satellite antenna positioning, targeting platforms, and navigation systems.
Offers compact size, low weight, and high reliability under extreme conditions.
8. Textile Machinery
Deployed in spinning, weaving, and embroidery machines for precise thread or component control.
Hollow shaft helps route control wires or mechanical links internally.
9. Lab Automation and Analysis Equipment
Common in centrifuges, sample handling arms, and fluidic systems.
The shaft can carry sample tubes or control lines, making the system cleaner and more efficient.
10. Slip Ring Integration for Continuous Rotation
Hollow shaft motors are often paired with slip rings to allow uninterrupted electrical connection during full rotation.
This is essential in radar systems, machine vision platforms, and automated rotary tables.
Why These Applications Matter
The real advantage of hollow shaft stepper motors lies in their ability to provide:
Compact, clean, and clutter-free system design
High-precision motion control
Increased flexibility for rotating systems
Simplified cable management
Enhanced integration with sensors and feedback systems
How to Choose the Right Hollow Shaft Stepper Motor
Selecting the right hollow shaft stepper motor is crucial for ensuring optimal performance, durability, and integration within your system. Whether you're designing an industrial automation system, a robotic arm, or medical imaging equipment, the right motor will deliver precision, efficiency, and long-term reliability.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to choose the ideal hollow shaft stepper motor for your specific application:
1. Define Your Application Requirements
Start by clearly understanding what your system needs:
Torque Requirements:
How much rotational force does your application need? Heavy-load applications require motors with high holding and dynamic torque.
Speed:
Determine the maximum and minimum RPM (revolutions per minute) the motor must achieve without losing steps or overheating.
Load Type:
Consider whether your motor will drive a rotary table, pulley, gear, or direct load.
2. Shaft Size and Hollow Diameter
The hollow shaft diameter must accommodate the components you need to pass through the center—such as cables, air lines, or optical fibers.
Ensure it matches your system design and space constraints.
3. Step Angle and Precision
Most standard stepper motors offer 1.8° or 0.9° per step.
For higher precision, choose motors with microstepping capability.
Closed-loop systems can offer servo-level accuracy with feedback control.
4. Frame Size and Mounting Dimensions
Select a motor with a frame size (e.g., NEMA 17, 23, or 34) that fits your available mounting area.
Ensure it supports the correct bolt pattern and shaft alignment.
5. Holding Torque vs. Running Torque
Holding torque is the ability to resist motion when stationary.
Running torque is how much the motor can deliver while moving.
Choose a motor that maintains adequate torque under your load conditions, especially if the system stops and starts frequently.
6. Voltage and Current Ratings
7. Closed-Loop vs. Open-Loop
Open-loop motors are cost-effective and simpler, but can lose steps if overloaded.
Closed-loop motors have encoders for real-time position feedback, ensuring accurate motion even under dynamic loads.
8. Environmental Conditions
Consider the motor’s resistance to dust, moisture, temperature, and vibration.
For harsh environments, look for motors with sealed housings (IP ratings) and robust construction.
9. Integration Needs
Some motors come with integrated drivers or gearboxes, reducing wiring and simplifying setup.
Others are frameless or customizable for OEM applications where space or weight is critical.
10. Budget and Lifecycle Cost
Don’t just consider the upfront cost—factor in maintenance, efficiency, and potential downtime.
A slightly higher investment in a high-efficiency, closed-loop motor may save significant costs over time.
Quick Selection Checklist
| Factor | Considerations |
| Torque | Load weight, acceleration/deceleration needs |
| Speed | Required RPM under load |
| Shaft Size | Inner diameter requirements |
| Precision | Step angle and microstepping capabilities |
| Frame Size | Fitment and space constraints |
| Voltage & Current | Match with driver/controller specs |
| Feedback Option | Closed-loop for accuracy, open-loop for simplicity |
| Environmental Protection | IP rating, temperature, dust exposure |
| Integration | Gearboxes, encoders, built-in drivers |
| Budget | Consider total cost of ownership, not just motor price |
Conclusion:
Choosing the right hollow shaft stepper motor means balancing performance, space, integration, and cost. By carefully analyzing your application’s needs and comparing them with motor specifications, you can ensure efficient, reliable, and accurate motion control for years to come.
Conclusion:
From robotics to aerospace, hollow shaft stepper motors have become essential in modern mechatronic systems. Their unmatched ability to combine precision with mechanical versatility makes them a top choice in industries requiring advanced, space-efficient automation.
Hollow shaft stepper motors offer a powerful blend of mechanical innovation and precise motion control. Their unique structure enables space-efficient, flexible, and high-performance solutions for modern engineering challenges. Whether you're designing industrial robots or compact medical systems, these motors provide a smart and efficient motion solution.
These top 20 Chinese hollow shaft stepper motor manufacturers of hollow shaft stepper motors are reshaping the future of automation with innovation, precision, and cost-efficiency. Whether you're sourcing motors for CNC, robotics, or industrial control, these companies offer world-class solutions that align with international standards.
English
العربية
Français
Русский
Español
Português
Deutsch
italiano
日本語
한국어
Nederlands
Tiếng Việt
ไทย
Polski
Türkçe
ພາສາລາວ
ភាសាខ្មែរ
Bahasa Melayu
ဗမာစာ
Filipino
Bahasa Indonesia
magyar
Română
Čeština
Монгол
қазақ
Српски
हिन्दी
فارسی
Slovenčina
Slovenščina
Norsk
Svenska
українська
Ελληνικά
Suomi
Հայերեն
עברית
Latine
Dansk
Shqip
বাংলা
Hrvatski
Afrikaans
Gaeilge
Eesti keel
Oʻzbekcha
latviešu
Azərbaycan dili
Български
Català
