Monitor AC Drive operating environment parameters

One of the most important pieces of maintenance advice for AC drives is to watch the operating conditions to ensure the AC drive is functioning within the prescribed parameters. To monitor an AC drive’s performance, the following steps can be taken:

1.       Check the temperature:

Check to see if the AC drive’s operating temperature is within the manufacturer-recommended range. High temperatures that damage the Allen Bradley AC drive components might reduce the device’s lifetime.

·         Verify the manufacturer-recommended operating temperature range for the AC drive.

·         Use a thermometer or temperature sensor to determine the AC drive’s temperature.

·         Look for hot spots on the surface of the AC drive.

·         Check the fans, filters, and vents in the AC drive’s cooling system.

·         Take the necessary action, such as cleaning the cooling system or reducing the ambient temperature, if hot patches are discovered if the temperature is higher than the recommended range.

2.       Check the humidity:

Checking the humidity levels in the area where an AC drive is located is a crucial part of maintenance. High humidity levels may cause condensation to accumulate on the AC drive, which might damage the drive’s components and affect functionality. The methods listed below can be used to determine the humidity: 

·         To determine the relative humidity of the air, use a hygrometer: A tool for accomplishing precisely that is a hygrometer. Place the hygrometer near to the AC drive to receive a reading.

·         Check the manufacturer’s recommendations: Review the manufacturer’s recommendations for the ideal humidity ranges for the AC drive.

·         Resolve the issue: If the humidity levels are higher than what the manufacturer suggests, take the proper action. This can entail relocating the AC drive to a drier location, or reducing the humidity levels with a dehumidifier or air conditioner.

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3.       Monitor vibration:

Monitoring vibration levels is a crucial part of AC drive maintenance. Vibration that is too strong may damage the AC drive’s components, which might affect performance. Follow these procedures to monitor vibration levels:

·         Utilise a vibration sensor: An instrument for figuring out how much the AC drive shakes is a vibration sensor. Put the sensor on the AC drive to receive a reading.

·         Verify the advice from the manufacturer: Review the recommended vibration levels for the AC drive from the manufacturer.

·         Corrective action should be made if the vibration levels are higher than the manufacturer’s specifications. It may be necessary to tighten slack bolts, modify the mounting or base, or replace worn-out components.

4.       Check for dust and debris:

The AC drive’s effectiveness might be hampered by dust and debris build-up on its outside and inside, which can result in overheating. The following steps can help you check for dust and debris:

·         Visually examine the AC drive: Take a look at the outside of the AC drive for any accumulating dust or debris. Pay particular attention to the air vents and the fan blades since these areas are more prone to the accumulation of dust.

·         Use a soft brush or cloth to clean the Rockwell Automation AC drive surface: Use a soft brush or towel to wipe off the surface of the AC drive. Avoid using water and cleaning solutions on electrical components since they might damage them.

 

·         Utilise a hoover: Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to clean the fan blades and air vents of dust and dirt. Make careful to switch off the AC drive before cleaning.

5.       Monitor the power supply:

It’s important to monitor the power supply for AC drive maintenance since power fluctuations might damage the AC drive’s electronic components. The power supply can be examined by performing the following procedures:

·         Use a power monitor: A power monitor may be used to measure the voltage and current of an AC power source. Set the monitor on the power supply to receive a reading.

·         Verify the frequency and voltage: Check the voltage and frequency of the AC power source against the recommendations given by the manufacturer.

·         Do something about it: If the voltage or frequency of the AC power supply are outside of what the manufacturer has specified, take corrective action. An electrician might examine and repair the power supply, install a voltage stabiliser or surge protector, or do both.

·         Checking the operating environment of an AC drive on a regular basis will help you prevent system problems and lengthen the life of the AC drive.

 

The dependability, efficiency, and safety of industrial processes are improved by diligently monitoring these AC Drive characteristics since it creates a proactive maintenance strategy. Through optimised energy use and less downtime from unforeseen breakdowns, it also helps to minimise costs.

Asteam Techno Solutions Pvt. Ltd is a commercial and service company specializing in the comprehensive services for our customers, as well as supply of difficult to obtain industrial automation spare parts. We provide everything that our clients need with reduced time of preparing quotations to the absolute minimum. Due to our extensive expertise working with both local and international suppliers, we are able to provide the highest-quality items at low costs. We specialize in deliveries of the following brands: Allen Bradley, Schneider Electrics, Omron, Siemens, Phoenix Contact, Moxa, Vipa and many more.

 

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