Drum motors
A drum motor is a drive in which the gear motor is integrated in the drum. For everything from food-safe belt conveyors to cow brushes, BEGE drum motors are the right solution.
Definition
A drum motor is a compact, enclosed drive in which the electric motor and gearbox are integrated inside the conveyor drum. This integrated design reduces external components and is widely used for belt conveyor applications, including hygienic and space-constrained installations.
Drum motors: high efficiency in a compact housing
A robust and reliable drum motor, with its compact housing, is the ideal solution for applications such as belt conveyors. BEGE is the exclusive distributor of LAT drum motors in the Netherlands. They come with a domed bare steel jacket as standard. The protection rating ranges from IP65 to IP69K. Available options include windings for different voltages and frequencies, cylindrical drums, and braked versions.
Product overview
For machine builders looking for an integrated drive, we offer a wide range of solutions.
Products
LAT drum motors
TM Series
Highly versatile, available in various widths (61.5 – 800 mm) and with many options, such as extra corrosion protection or encoders. For other needs, requirements and wishes, we provide custom solutions.
- Power: 0,03 – 132 kW
- Max. torque: 22.527 Nm
- Drum diameter: 61,5 – 800 mm
LAT stainless steel drum motors
TMRVS Series
Stainless steel and food-safe with IP69K protection rating. Resistant to high temperatures and high-pressure cleaning. The best option for food processing and food production applications.
- Power: 0,03 – 132 kW
- Max. torque: 22.527 Nm
- Drum diameter: 61,5 – 800 mm
Comparison: TM vs TMRVS
| Feature | TM Series (LAT drum motors) | TMRVS Series (LAT stainless steel drum motors) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary focus | Versatile integrated drum motor for broad industrial use | Food-safe stainless steel drum motor for hygiene-critical environments |
| Material (as described) | Domed bare steel jacket as standard | Stainless steel |
| Protection rating (as described) | Within the stated range IP65–IP69K (depends on configuration) | IP69K |
| Power range | 0,03 – 132 kW | 0,03 – 132 kW |
| Max. torque | 22.527 Nm | 22.527 Nm |
| Drum diameter | 61,5 – 800 mm | 61,5 – 800 mm |
| Typical applications | General conveyor and integrated drive applications | Food processing and food production; high-pressure cleaning environments |
| Notable options mentioned | Extra corrosion protection; encoders; custom solutions | Hygienic design; resistant to high temperatures and high-pressure cleaning |
Drum motors: an integrated drive
BEGE has been a leading specialist in drives for 75 years. During this period, we have developed a deep understanding of applications and innovations. As an exclusive distributor of LAT drum motors, we maintain close contact with the manufacturer and can communicate market requirements quickly.
BEGE offers the option of holding reserved stock. In addition, there are numerous options available for specific applications to meet unique customer needs.
- Drum motors in various standard sizes
- Numerous options available for various applications in the food industry, packaging & logistics and bulk goods
- Non-standard frequencies, voltages and thermal protection
- Various types of drive roll cladding: smooth, diamond profile, food grade, nub profile, and hot or cold vulcanized PU
Exclusive Benelux distributor of LAT drum motors
We supply compact, powerful and robust drum motors for a wide range of applications, such as belt conveyors and beltless drives
Drum motors at BEGE
High efficiency
LAT drum motors are especially efficient, with efficiency of up to 97%. This means low energy costs and a minimal risk of downtime.
Food-safe stainless steel
The stainless steel version is easy to clean thanks to its aseptic design and meets the strictest hygiene requirements.
Custom options
If a standard drum motor does not suffice, our engineering team can customize the drum in our workshop to suit your specific needs.
Applications
Our in-depth knowledge of drive technology and insight into specific industries, enables us to deliver perfectly fitting drive solutions. Some examples of applications where BEGE drum motors are used successfully and without failure are:
Luggage handling
Drum motors are often used in both belt conveyors and roller conveyors. BEGE supplies these products with the right cladding for the required friction. Optionally equipped with a brake and return stop, perfect for ascending conveyors.
Warehousing and dynamic order-picking
The compact design and simple individual control make it easier to implement dynamic transport systems. Adding an encoder allows objects to be positioned accurately and precisely.
Everything you need to know about drum motors
What are the primary benefits of using drum motors in conveyor systems?
The main advantage of a drum motor is its all-in-one design. Unlike traditional drives, the motor, gearbox, and bearings are all housed inside the drum shell. This offers several key benefits:
- Superior hygiene: the lack of external components eliminates areas where food particles and bacteria can trap, making them perfect for food-safe environments.
- Enhanced safety: by eliminating external moving parts like chains, sprockets, and exposed shafts, pinch points are removed, significantly increasing operator safety.
- Space savings: the compact, low-profile design allows for more streamlined conveyor layouts, freeing up valuable floor or overhead space.
- Reduced noise: high-quality honed gears ensure minimal decibel levels, often exceeding OSHA requirements for a quieter workspace.
- Simple installation: as a self-contained component, it allows for fast installation and removal, reducing downtime during assembly or maintenance.
How do drum motors compare to traditional gear motors in terms of efficiency?
LAT drum motors are exceptionally efficient, achieving mechanical efficiencies of up to 97%. This direct power transmission can result in energy savings of up to 30% compared to conventional exposed-drive conveyors.
While drum motors may have a higher upfront cost than standard gear motors, they are largely a “set-and-forget” solution. Their extreme longevity—often running for 50,000+ hours without an oil change—and minimal maintenance requirements result in a significantly lower Total Cost of Ownership.
Why are stainless steel drum motors ideal for the food processing industry?
In hygiene-sensitive environments, cleanliness is paramount. Stainless steel drum motors are designed without external cooling fins or crevices where bacteria can accumulate. Because the entire drive is enclosed and hermetically sealed, it can withstand high-pressure washdowns (IP69K) and aggressive cleaning chemicals.
This food-safe design ensures total compliance with HACCP and EHEDG guidelines, minimizing the risk of food contamination.
What are the most common applications for industrial drum motors?
Industrial drum motors are versatile drives used across numerous sectors. Key applications include:
- Logistics & Warehousing: Powering sorting systems and distribution conveyors.
- Food & Beverage: Driving processing lines for meat, poultry, and bakery products.
- Packaging: Integrated into high-speed wrapping and labeling machines.
- Airport Logistics: Used in baggage handling systems and check-in counters.
- Bulk Handling: For transporting materials in agricultural or construction environments.
How do BEGE and LAT drum motors differ from other brands?
BEGE is the specialized partner offering the renowned LAT drum motors by Himmel. Himmel is recognized for high-quality German engineering, providing a modular system that allows for a wide range of diameters, belt speeds, and power ratings.
While other brands may focus on mass-market standards, BEGE provides tailored LAT drum motor solutions that prioritize durability and thermal stability, ensuring long-term reliability even in 24/7 industrial operations.
What customization options are available for drum motors?
BEGE offers an extensive range of custom modifications to adapt LAT drum motors to specific operational needs. Our specialization allows us to deliver bespoke products including:
- Control & feedback: incremental encoders, electromagnetic brakes, mechanical backstops, and pole-changing or 1-phase motors.
- Protection: PTC thermistors, bimetal temperature switches, labyrinth seals, sealing discs, and rust/acid protecting coatings.
- Mechanical: rubber or ceramic coatings, sprockets/toothed belt discs, special shaft configurations, and clamping bearings.
- Certification: ATEX certification for hazardous zones and cCSAus certification.
- Additional: higher ambient temperature resistance, special voltages/frequencies, and availability as a guide drum (idlers).
Are drum motors maintenance-free?
Many modern drum motors are considered low-maintenance because the internal components operate in a permanent oil bath that provides constant lubrication and cooling. Unlike external drives, there are no chains to grease or external belts to tension.
Periodically checking and changing the oil (depending on the model and intensity of usage) is typically the only requirement to ensure a service life that can span many years of continuous operation.
Which company is the best supplier for high-quality drum motors in the Netherlands?
BEGE is the leading specialist and supplier of LAT drum motors in the Benelux. With deep technical expertise in drive technology and in-house manufacturing capabilities, BEGE does not just supply components but provides complete engineering support. This helps machine builders and end-users integrate the most efficient conveyor belt motor into their systems with fast delivery and high-end German drive technology.
View all LAT drum motors
BEGE LAT drum motors are compact, powerful and robust, and are available in various versions. Customer-specific custom options are also possible.
FAQs
1) What does “integrated drive” mean for a drum motor?
It means the motor, gearbox and bearings are housed inside the drum shell, resulting in a compact conveyor drive with fewer external components.
2) Which drum motor series are listed on this page?
The page lists the TM Series (LAT drum motors) and the TMRVS Series (LAT stainless steel drum motors).
3) What power range is specified for the LAT TM and TMRVS series?
Both series are listed with a power range of 0,03 – 132 kW.
4) What maximum torque is specified for the LAT TM and TMRVS series?
Both series are listed with a maximum torque of 22.527 Nm.
5) What drum diameter range is specified for the LAT TM and TMRVS series?
Both series are listed with a drum diameter range of 61,5 – 800 mm.
6) What protection ratings are mentioned for BEGE/LAT drum motors?
The page states protection ratings ranging from IP65 to IP69K, with the stainless steel version specified as IP69K.
7) Why is stainless steel important for certain drum motor applications?
The stainless steel, food-safe version is described as easy to clean due to its aseptic design and suitable for high-pressure cleaning, which supports strict hygiene requirements in food production.
8) What options are mentioned for adapting drum motors to specific applications?
Options mentioned include different windings for voltages and frequencies, cylindrical drums, braked versions, encoders, corrosion protection, and multiple cladding types (e.g., smooth, diamond profile, food grade, nub profile, vulcanized PU).
9) Which applications are specifically described in the applications section?
The page specifically describes luggage handling and warehousing/dynamic order-picking as examples of successful applications.
10) What role does BEGE claim regarding LAT drum motors in the region?
The page states that BEGE is the exclusive distributor of LAT drum motors in the Netherlands and presents itself as exclusive Benelux distributor of LAT drum motors.