Technical Guide to Motor & Pump Monitoring
Motors and Pumps
Worldwide, approximately 60% of the electrical power used in factories is consumed by electric motors. All electric motors, regardless of application require electrical current to generate the magnetic fields necessary to create rotation. By measuring this current, useful information can be obtained to monitor the status of the motor and the equipment connected to it. Both AC and DC powered motors are used to drive pumps, fans, conveyors and a broad range of specialized equipment.
Techniques for Determining Motor/Pump conditions
Electric motors utilize current and voltage to operate. The speed of a motor is proportional to the applied voltage and/or frequency, and the torque generated by the motor proportional to the applied current. The combination of the current and voltage (torque and speed) creates the power required to operate. Thus current and voltage measurements may be used to monitor the motor operating conditions and determine motor status. Current and power transducers, as well as current operated switches, provide sensing technology to monitor current and voltage. This aides in determining the condition of an electric motor and provides a signal to direct a specific action. These sensor devices can be used for jam protection, verification of operation, load monitoring, closed loop control, and status alarms. Read more
Pump Jam & Suction Loss Protection
Pumps can become jammed due to foreign matter and cause damage to both the pump and the motor before thermal overloads are tripped. Additionally a blockage in the suction line of the pump can cause the pump to run dry, overheat and break a seal.
By simply installing an NK Technologies’ self-powered Current Operated Switch in one leg of the motor overload (pump jam), underload (suction loss) or underload & overload can be detected quickly before damage occurs.