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Stepper motors are brushless motors that use multi-toothed electromagnets to define the position. The electromagnets are fixed around a centralized gear. NEMA numbers define the standard dimensions of a faceplate for mounting a motor.  NEMA 17 stepper motors are stepper motors with a 43.2mm x 43.2mm (1.7 inch x 1.7 inch) faceplate. They are heavier and larger than a NEMA 14 stepper motor, but their size is what ensures more room for higher torque. NEMA 17 is the most common size for stepper motors used in 3D printers. They can be designed and manufactured to have different mechanical and electrical specifications to suit the 3D printer that you want to build.

When looking for a NEMA 17 stepper, remember that the name is merely the frame size standard, which defines the dimensions of a mounting faceplate. You need to make sure that you are getting the right stepper based on the motor’s electrical specifications.

Some companies can manufacture and design custom NEMA 17 stepper motors for your 3D printer.

Custom NEMA 17 stepper motors are ideal for custom 3D printer applications that require a specific lead length, shaft size, frame size, or body length.