KV = RPM of the motor (k) per volt (V) with no load
When it comes to brushless motors for RC cars and trucks, one of the most important factors to consider is the motor’s KV rating. KV, (not to be confused with kilovolt), rating is a measure of the motor’s speed, and it plays a crucial role in determining the performance of your RC vehicle. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what KV is, and how it can affect the performance of your RC vehicle.
Table of Contents
What is KV?
KV, is a measure of the speed of a brushless motor. It is the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) the motor will make per volt applied to it. For example, a motor with a KV rating of 4000 will rotate at 4000 RPM when 1 volt is applied to it.
How KV Affects Performance
The KV rating of a brushless motor can have a significant impact on the performance of your RC vehicle. Generally speaking, a higher KV rating will result in a higher top speed and better acceleration. However, a higher KV motor will also require more power to run, which can put a strain on the battery and electronic speed controller (ESC).
Low KV Motors
Low KV motors, typically between 200 and 1000 KV, are ideal for RC vehicles that require more torque and better low-speed control. These motors are typically used in heavy vehicles such as scale model trucks and crawlers, as well as in aircrafts such as multirotors.
Medium KV Motors
Medium KV motors, typically between 1000 and 2500 KV, are a good all-around choice for RC cars and trucks. They provide a good balance of speed and torque, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
High KV Motors
High KV motors, typically above 2500 KV, are ideal for RC vehicles that require high speed and acceleration. These motors are typically used in racing vehicles, such as touring cars and buggies.
Matching KV with Battery and ESC
It’s important to match the KV rating of your brushless motor with the correct battery and ESC. A high KV motor will require a higher voltage battery and a more powerful ESC to run properly. Additionally, it’s important to consider the type of vehicle you’re building, and what your performance goals are when choosing a motor KV.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the KV rating of a brushless motor is an important factor to consider when building an RC vehicle. A higher KV rating will result in a higher top speed and better acceleration, while a lower KV rating will provide more torque and better low-speed control. It’s important to match the KV rating of your brushless motor with the correct battery and ESC, and to consider the type of vehicle you’re building and your performance goals when choosing a motor KV. With the right brushless motor, you can take your RC vehicle to the next level in terms of speed and performance.