What are the causes for VFD Failure and the right ways to prevent them?

VFD stands for variable frequency drive, which plays a key role to control the process of an electrical motor. It helps to control the speed of a motor by changing the power supply's frequency and voltage.

VFD helps in saving energy and improving system efficiency by controlling the speed of a motor. It matches the pace of the drive to the procedure requirements, matches the power of the drive to the procedure requirements, and lessens mechanical pressure on the machines driven by the motor.

There are many companies that manufacturers AC inverter drives, servo, and motion control, and many useful automation systems. Few well-known names you can see everywhere are Lenze VFD and KEB VFD, recommended by all industrial automation products suppliers and professionals.   

Variable frequency drive (VFD) ensures that your drive works efficiently. If you experience any problem in its functionality, look for a reliable VFD Repair service provider. They will deal with the entire fretful problem in VFD.

There are various reasons for VFD failure and all need to be dealt with quickly before they blow up. If you are facing over-voltage faults, detecting inconsistent operation, or hearing odd noises within a VFD, it's good to call the VFD repair service provider immediately.

Here are some most common reasons for VFD failure and the ways to prevent them:

1. Upsurge in the VFD

The most common reason for VFD failure is upsurge, which is simply an accumulation of dust caused due to plant moisture from oil or metallic particles.

Excessive dust creates extra moisture and obstructs the airflow, which is necessary for the proper working of the VFD drive. Eventually, more moisture causes more heat generation that might end as a string of unwanted events. This will gradually decrease the functioning of VFD.

To prevent this issue you should clean the whole device regularly. Make sure there will be no dust present within or outside the VFD.

Moreover, make sure that you use the correct VFD for the plant settings. The best you can do is installing sealed VFDs regardless of the one having side vents for cooling.

2. Overheating

Overheating is the big issue, which occurred due to the excess of current supply to the drive. When the current supply exceeds more than the rated level of VFD or when there are loose connections then overheating takes place frequently.

Overheating causes capacitors to blow up and result in shorts, which can shut down the controller.

You can prevent this issue by using temperature probes. It helps in checking all connections in the drive and the motor. Just ensure that the temperature matches the requirement of the OEM. Try to maintain clean and ventilated settings to prevent the buildup of moisture and dust.

3. Extreme Moisture

Moisture forms corrosion in the drive, which harms the circuit boards. If your variable frequency drive functions round the clock, it makes adequate heat to stop internal condensation.

To prevent this issue you can use dehumidifiers. Just ensure they are not drenched near the electronic device. Always pick a VFD with sealed housing.

4. Slack Connections

Loose connections in the circuit can cause VFD failure too. Connections become loose due to the heat cycles and vibrations over a period that causes risky arcing.

To prevent this issue, you must monitor the various VFD components regularly. Check for full or leaking capacitors, dented fans, rust, or traces on the board of the circuit.

5. Using the incorrect Motor/Machine

Connecting a VFD to an incompatible motor or machine will degrade its performance slowly. Some machines work well with a soft starter in place of a VFD.

Do not forget checking the compatibility of the motor before connecting a VFD to the device.

6. Not paying attention to warning signs

Lastly, the most unnoticed reason for VFD failure is unawareness. If you do not pay an attention to the early warning signs, a comparatively smaller issue will convert into a bigger one, having bad implications.

Therefore, taking essential preventive measures will be your initial steps to avoid all such issues. However, if the problem still occurs, there is no harm seeking a professional VFD repair in Pune i.e. CM Industry Supply Automation and get the job done on time with full guarantee.