Electrical engineers often use medium voltage (MV) motors in projects that require high electricity output. Low voltage motors will require either larger cables or higher currents to meet the higher electrical output. Hence, MV motors are more cost-effective than low voltage motors for heavy applications as they consume less power in both the production and operation processes.
Still, regular overhauling and repairs are necessary to keep your motors working efficiently. Sometimes, your MV motor may even be showing signs of wear and tear – such as smoke billows, strange noises, or even constant overheating. In these scenarios, your MV motor may need an overhaul.
The process of a motor overhaul involves taking apart the motor to inspect any individual parts that are damaged or faulty. If these parts need to be repaired or even replaced, the engineer will do so accordingly. After which, the engineer or mechanic will put these parts back together to help your motor work as good as new.
Since there are different parts of your motor that may be causing it to malfunction, it may be hard to pinpoint the reason behind your motor overhaul. Here are some reasons why you may need to overhaul your MV motor.
The coils of your MV motor may need rewinding
Motor coils are insulated to prevent the current from passing through the wire turns. The motor coils may be shorted due to high voltage spikes or overheating that resulted in aged insulation. Shorted motor coils may burn out the rest of your motor, resulting in complete malfunctioning.
Other causes include motor grounding. When a motor is grounded, electricity flows to the grounding wire instead of passing through the original electrical pathway. There is insufficient resistance to facilitate the flow of electricity, resulting in the current flowing without a proper controlled direction. Uncontrolled current flow is a safety risk that may cause shock.
Rewinding the motor improves the thermal conductivity and insulation of the motor. It is not only necessary for safety but also improves cost-effectiveness and the overall functionality of your motor.
Some parts of your MV motor may be contaminated
It is necessary to oil your motor parts often to ensure they run smoothly and efficiently. However, oil and grease buildup over time is natural. Substance buildup results in the blockage of air passages and spaces between the motor parts, which should be kept clean and empty. Blocked air passages will prevent your motor from cooling down as it runs, resulting in overheating and eventually motor failure.
Contamination also increases the risk of corrosion. Motor parts should be kept clean without coming into contact with water and oil for long periods of time. Lubricants may contain sulphur, and sulphuric acid may corrode the metal parts and destroy any protective films. Water also increases the probability of rusting.
The bearings of your motor may need to be replaced
Bearing failure is a possible reason for overhauling your MV motor. Over time, bearings may expand too much due to overheating, eventually slipping out of place and misaligning with the shaft. Bearing seals may also no longer be in close contact and apply sufficient pressure on the bearing’s inner ring. This way, contaminants may slip into the bearing and stop it from functioning properly.
Frequent checks will help you identify when your MV motor needs to be overhauled and quickly single out the parts of your motor that need special servicing or replacement. Adequate and regular servicing like electric motor repair and overhauling, depending on which is the more appropriate type of servicing, is vital to keep your equipment in fine fettle.
