Each electric motor has a specific lifespan, typically between 30 and 40,000 minutes of use. But, it is contingent on getting the proper treatment; in the absence of this, they will degrade much faster.
“Maintenance” or “maintenance,” or “technical maintenance,” is an assortment of processes that aim to ensure continuous and efficient operation of different assets, like machinery and equipment. Implementing a well-planned maintenance program is essential to the efficiency and longevity of equipment, buildings, support, and businesses.
Preventing Motor Failure
Poor maintenance decreases the equipment’s life, increasing the likelihood of breakdowns, raising repair costs, and slowing production. If you are aware of the most frequent causes of motor failure and what should be done to reduce the chance of having one of these issues, you can ensure that your motor lasts for as long as it can.
1. Low Resistance
Low resistance is the most frequent cause of motor failure and is perhaps the most difficult to repair. The effects of corrosion, overheating, or damage to the windings could weaken the windings’ insulation and cause low resistance.
Insufficient isolation between the conductors and windings of the motor is the result and could result in short circuits, leaks, and even motor failure. The insulation must be inspected regularly for signs of degrading and replaced before the resistance becomes enough to trigger failure.
Maintenance companies also provide services for precision electronic balance wherein they devise and build specialized equipment for balancing and repairing machines.
2. Overheating
Overheating is the main reason for 55 percent of motor insulation problems. Poor quality of power or an operating temperature that is high could result in excessive heat. The life expectancy of an insulating motor is reduced by half for each ten-degree Celsius rise in temperature.
A cool and comfortable working environment will help reduce the chance of motor breakdowns. Therefore, it is essential to keep the motor at a suitable temperature.
3. Electrical Overload
Overcurrent or electrical overload is when a large amount of current flows through the motor’s wires. The motor’s current is greater than the amount of design current the motor can handle efficiently and safely. This could be due to the low supply voltage, which makes the motor require an additional amount of current to keep its speed. A high supply of electricity can also trigger short circuits.
To prevent overloading electrical circuits, it is essential to have sufficient overcurrent protection that detects overcurrent and cuts off the power supply.
4. Vibrations
Vibration can cause various issues for the motor, such as premature failure. The motor can vibrate when placed on an unstable or uneven surface. It is also possible that the vibrations could be caused by issues with the motor, like damaged or worn-out bearings or corrosion.
The frequency of vibration should be checked frequently using an analyzer. Ensure the motor is placed on a level and solid surface to avoid vibration. There could be a misalignment or wear that causes the vibration. If so, you should look for these signs. If you cannot pinpoint the source of the vibration, it is recommended to seek an expert.
If low-speed balancing is not used to address vibration issues, mechanical failure may result. Search online or ask about for referrals to find trustworthy organizations that provide pump balancing services if you’re in need of one.
5. Contamination
Dust, dirt, and chemical contamination are among the most frequent causes of motor failure. The objects that get into the motor could cause damage to bearing raceways or balls, which can cause excessive wear and vibration, which could be hazardous. They can also block the fan cooling, reducing the motor’s capacity to regulate its temperature and increasing the possibility of overheating.
Make sure that all surfaces for work as well as equipment, tools, and other work surfaces are free of dust to reduce the chance of contamination getting into the motor. Avoid motors near grinding machines known for spewing enormous quantities of contaminants.
If you are running an industrial business and you are handling several machineries that need maintenance, you can check out this site: vib.com, or you can search the internet for reputable companies who conduct vibration analysis or any troubleshooting for machines, and avail of their services.
