Motor Power Calculation Guide: Why P=F×V Matters in Servo Motor Sizing & AGV Motion Design

A complete engineering guide to motor power calculation methods including P=F×V, torque-based formulas, efficiency factors, and inertia correction for AGVs, robots, and motion control systems.

Overview of Motor Power Calculation Methods

Motor sizing is critical to ensure robotic systems, AGV drive solutions, servo wheel modules, and linear actuators operate safely and efficiently. Three industry-validated methods are widely used:

1) Linear Motion Power (Force-Based Method)
P = F × V
Corrected：Pmotor = (F × V × K) / η
Advantages：Intuitive and universal
Application：Ball screw actuators, belt stages

2) Rotational Power (Torque-Based Method)
P(kW) = T(N·m) × n(rpm) / 9550
Advantages：High accuracy for rotary systems
Application：AGV wheel hub motors, steering wheel modules

3) Empirical Estimation
Used only for preliminary sizing (e.g., lifting systems)
Fast but less accurate

Why P=F×V is a “Universal Formula”

All torque-power equations can be derived from P=F×V:
T = F × r, ω = V / r → P = T × ω = F × V
Therefore, it can analyze both rotary and linear motion fundamentally.

Common Mistakes & Engineering Best Practices

Incorrect：Using P=F×V directly → result: underpowered motor
Correct：Always include
✔ Transmission efficiency η
✔ Acceleration inertia load
✔ Safety factor K（1.2–2.0）
Final：Pmotor = (F × V × K) / η

Keywords included naturally: AGV drive system, servo motor sizing, motion control efficiency

Torque Conversion Reference Table

Improves accuracy in AGV wheel and reducer pairing.

Practical Case Study

Ball screw actuator
Load: 25kg；Speed: 0.4m/s
Corrected demand after efficiency & safety factor：≈173W
Final motor selection：200W servo motor

→ Proof that correction parameters are essential for reliable operation

Conclusion

• Select the right formula depending on motion type

• P=F×V is essential but must include η and inertia

• Torque verification ensures the optimal servo drive and gearbox match

Widely applicable for AGV/AMR robots, servo wheel modules, industrial automation machinery.