BL4825 - suitability for use as exposed traction motor, and steps for waterproofing

[kcleung]

Pancake outboard BLDCs with integrated driver, low RPM, high torque and low prices such as BL4825 are widely available.

However, all of them have exposed PCB stator/driver and an external gap between the stator and the outboard rotor, which will be prone to rain and dirt ingression.

I plan to use this motor as a traction motor in the nose-suspended drive for model locomotives, where axle length is at a premium, and perhaps RC cars. In both cases, the motor will be exposed and held 2cm above the ground.

Dan has very helpfully provided a documentation of BL4825:

https://www.makerforge.tech/posts/bl4825o-introduction/

Is this type of motor really suitable for the above application?

How prone to rain and dirt ingression will this type of motor be without any modifications? Is it as bad as I envisiage?

Would it be necessary or appropriate to seal the stator (PCB and coil) by applying a sprayed sealant such as paralyne C? What other steps can we take to enable the motor to be run outdoors?

[danic85]

Hi @kcleung, I don't think I can help with that assessment - they seem like questions for the manufacturer. The linked document was a one-off investigation of the motor, but I haven't worked with it more since publishing. Certainly not with the kind of focus you're looking for guidance on.

Thanks!