Nidec

What does Nidec mean?

Nidec is a Japanese multinational corporation and the world’s largest comprehensive manufacturer of electric motors, with approximately 300 production sites and R&D facilities in 43 countries. Founded in 1973 by Shigenobu Nagamori, Nidec’s Name is an acronym for “Nippon Denki Seisakusho,” which translates to “Japan Electric Manufacturing Company.”

Nidec’s primary focus is on the design, production, and sale of electric motors, ranging from small precision motors used in smartphones and hard disk drives to large industrial motors employed in elevators, escalators, and electric vehicles. The company also manufactures electronic components, power systems, and other related products.

Nidec’s strength lies in its proprietary core technologies, particularly its unique brushless DC motor design and rare-earth magnet development. These technologies have enabled the company to deliver high-efficiency, low-noise motors that meet the demands of various applications, including consumer electronics, industrial automation, automotive, and medical devices.

Applications

Nidec’s electric motors find applications in a diverse range of industries, including:

• Consumer Electronics: Nidec’s small precision motors are used in smartphones, digital cameras, and hard disk drives, providing power-efficient operation and quiet performance.
• Industrial Automation: Nidec’s Servo motors and variable-speed drives are employed in robotics, machine tools, and automated production lines, allowing for precise motion control and energy optimization.
• Automotive: Nidec supplies electric motors, power systems, and inverters for electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and fuel cell vehicles, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
• Medical Devices: Nidec’s micro-motors and actuators are utilized in surgical tools, prosthetic limbs, and medical imaging equipment, ensuring precision and reliability in critical applications.

The widespread use of Nidec’s motors in various industries highlights their importance in modern technology. By providing efficient, reliable, and innovative motor solutions, Nidec empowers businesses and consumers alike to achieve technological advancements and improve everyday Life.

History

Nidec’s origins can be traced back to 1954 when Shigenobu Nagamori founded a small electric motor repair workshop in Kyoto, Japan. In 1973, he established Nidec Corporation and expanded the company’s focus to manufacturing precision electric motors.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Nidec grew rapidly through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. The company acquired OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) in various industries, gaining access to new markets and expanding its product portfolio.

In the early 2000s, Nidec made significant investments in rare-earth magnet development, which proved to be a game-changer for the company. Rare-earth magnets enabled the production of more powerful and efficient motors, which gained widespread adoption in consumer electronics and automotive applications.

Over the Past decade, Nidec has continued its Global expansion, establishing production facilities and R&D centers in key markets worldwide. The company has also made significant acquisitions, including the purchase of Leroy-Somer, a leading manufacturer of industrial motors and generators, and Emerson Electric’s motor business, further strengthening its position in the global motor industry.

Today, Nidec remains a global leader in the electric motor industry, with a diverse product portfolio and a strong focus on innovation and sustainability. The company’s motors are essential components in various technologies that shape the modern world.