How to Diagnosis and Prevent Motor Problems

Motors are among some of the most ubiquitous pieces of equipment in our lives. They are especially essential in any manufacturing facility. Motors convert electricity into a spinning motion, thought that spinning can be turned into any other motion by interconnected gears and gadgets. It is because they are so essential to functionality that it is essential to correctly diagnose problems. Diagnosing Motor Troubles

1. Is the brush sparking? This is usually evident by sparking once the casing is removed.

2. Is the armature discolored? Tip: Do you know what color it was originally? Have pictures either in the manual or at the time of installation to know this)

3. Does the motor have too high of a temperature? Hint: Do you know what the right temperature is? Know that before assuming that is the problem.

4. Does the motor have inadequate exhaust airflow?

5. Does the motor have excessive vibration? Tip: Know the vibration level the motor has had over time. Where possible, track this. Then you can notice that the vibration rate or severity is increasing before the motor starts shaking and making very serious noises. If any of these things are happening, then the motor probably has a problem. Once one has the diagnosis, the fix can be right by the (manufacturer's) book. However, to prevent further occurrences, you need to know the source of the problem. What is the source of the motor problem?

1. Is there dust in the motor housing? Tip: this is visible upon removal unless there is a lot of oil and grease caked in. a.) If so, is it a black film? - If so, this is fouling the motor. That is oil and grease, mixed with dust and possibly metal shavings. If there is dust AND black film, the motor can cause an arc over.

2. Is there black film on the commutator? Then there is brush sparking.

3. Is there a heat build-up? a.) Check for over-lubrication. (And do you know what the correct level of lubrication is?) - If there is over-lubrication, this is what caused the heat build-up.

4. Do the drive belts squeal or slip during operation or acceleration? a.) If so, press them. They should deflect about half an inch. - If they deflect more than half an inch, they are loose. In which case, tighten them. Once the source is identified, fix that along with the motor. Then you will be fixing the motors far less often, much to the joy of your mechanics.