Industrial electric motors are the lifeline of manufacturing units. Given the importance of electric motors, plant managers need to perform periodic checks to maintain this crucial device’s health. It is essential to check the condition of every electric motor to prevent downtime. Typically, the lifespan of an electric motor is 20 years. However, industrial electric motors that are not adequately maintained usually end up in the trash pile prematurely. And this has a massive impact on a business’s productivity and profit.
Like any other electrical equipment, the electric motor also needs preventive maintenance. With some planning and periodic inspection, it’s possible to prolong the life and ensure the quality performance of an electric motor. Checking the condition of engines should be a part of managing facility assets to prevent potential breakdowns. Numerous potential issues can be easily avoided if you have an observant workforce. If workers are attentive, they can identify machinery problems, which helps them take timely action. Simple issues like overheated bearings or unusual sounds and vibrations indicate mechanical flaws.
Here are some useful tips for maintaining their health to help you keep your electric motors in top condition.
Visual Inspection
By merely looking at the motor, you can avoid motor breakdown and potential downtime. The physical condition of the engine can reveal a lot about its health. The motor may build up corrosion and debris on its components, limiting the equipment’s performance. You should also look at the motor windings and observe any unusual smells. Ensure the electric motor is not exposed to dirt, moisture, toxic elements, and harsh conditions.
Lubrication
Lubrication is the essence of prolonging the life of bearings. Proper lubrication ensures superior performance of the electric motor. It is seen that more than 50% of motor failures are due to inadequate lubrication practices. Insufficient lubrication causes the bearings to wear out prematurely. However, this doesn’t mean to over-lubricate the directions. Over-lubrication causes grease or oil to get into the windings, slowing heat dissipation. Ideally, you should neither under-grease nor over-grease the approaches. Read the motor manual or the manufacturer’s website to know how and when to lubricate the bearings.
Rotor and Stator
The rotor and stator are essential components of an electric motor. These components ensure the optimal working of your engine, so maintain these parts. You need to note the gap between the stator and rotor for equal clearance all the way around. To check this, you can use a feeler gauge to record the gap sizes at each end’s top, bottom, and sides. If the current readings differ from the previous ones or the manufacturer’s gap specifications, you may need to replace those bearings.
Record Everything
A proper maintenance routine includes recording everything. Documenting every detail of the machine makes it easier to maintain the motor and minimizes downtime. You should note down the tests performed and their results. These findings will help establish trends, and it will be easier to solve the problem the next time it occurs.
