Save Time when Troubleshooting DC Drives with Carotron’s Drive Circuit Monitor

DC drives play a crucial role in industrial operations that are powered by DC motors. Drives control the motors to ensure that the speed and torque are just right for the equipment or machinery being used. They are used in a number of industrial settings for extrusion, web handling, plastics, chemicals, slitting, etc. Unfortunately, troubleshooting a DC drive can be time consuming unless you have the right tools for the job. That’s why Carotron, Inc. developed a Drive Circuit Monitor to provide precision troubleshooting functions for the company’s latest drive models.

This helpful handheld unit is battery-operated (9VDC battery), and plugs into the DC drive for testing with a 2-foot ribbon cable. It features a 3-3/4 digit auto-ranging voltmeter integrated circuit as well as a switching circuit that allows you to select between 18 check points on Blazer Series drives and 20 check points on the Choice series drives. The Drive Circuit Monitor also comes with a pocket size User Guide and a padded carrying case.

3 Important Elements of Troubleshooting

Even when using a handy tool such as the Drive Circuit Monitor to troubleshoot a DC drive, there are three important elements that should not be ignored.

1. Troubleshoot the Entire Application First

Before testing the DC drive, check each aspect of the application and all related equipment, motors, etc. Sometimes, it’s the load that’s causing problems with the drive, or the external controls such as push buttons, interlocks, digital controls, etc. In a nutshell, make sure it is actually the DC drive that’s malfunctioning to avoid wasting time and money.

2. Read the Manual

DC drives usually come with a very detailed instruction and/or service manual showing how the drive was built and wired. Manuals often have prints showing the schematics for the control, power/trigger, fuse, IFB and relay boards. There are also diagrams for wiring and connections. Manuals will feature other helpful information, including drive programming and calibration details, component testing information, detailed specs and troubleshooting hints. Studying the manual first will also help you be able to decode messages related to the failure and possibly identify the problem right away.

3. Safety

Take measures to ensure electrical and mechanical safety when troubleshooting DC drives and motors. Though you might try to do some of the troubleshooting with the drive and/or motor powered off, it’s likely that you will have to do most of the testing with the power on. Use warning signs, proper lock-out procedures, and tape off the area where the machine is being tested to prevent harm to other employees. Always take a voltage reading with a verified meter before doing any hands-on work internally to the drive. You’ll likely need the following readings: line current; load current; AC input line voltage and AC output load voltage, DC bus voltage; and frequency output to the motor.

Write down any noticeable problems as well as your findings to avoid confusion later on. This can also help if multiple people are working to solve the problem. DC drives can be repaired externally and even replaced, but this is often not necessary with newer DC drives thanks to innovating troubleshooting tools like the Drive Circuit Monitor. Use these tips to minimize downtime when DC drive problems arise.

Check out our DC Drives selection or Call Carotron to discuss how to create an efficient DC motor and drive system for your application. We have knowledgeable reps and engineers on staff who are always willing to help: 1-888-286-8614