In this paper the development of an adaptive neuro-fuzzy architecture for the speed control of a servo system with nonlinear load is presented. The synthesis of the structure is described and a learning algorithm for the neuro-fuzzy control system is derived. The supervised learning algorithm is used to train the unknown coefficients of the system, and then the fuzzy rules of the neuro-fuzzy system are generated. A number of simulation studies are carried out, and the results are compared with those obtained with a PI controller tuned using desired time response characteristics. These and the experimental studies presented show that the neuro-fuzzy control system has a better control performance than the conventional PI controller.