Mike Dolt Enterprises Logo Mike Dolt Enterprises

Topic: VFD Fault alarms at low speed

User: Rob2025, Location: Toronto, Canada

Asked on: Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 10:50 pm EDT
Answered on: Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 10:59 pm EDT

Question: I am currently working on the issue of Vacon NXS series VFD giving fault signal (NC contact changes status to NO). The motor is running at 20Hz fixed speed. However this happens especially in Summer time when the room temp goes above 25 CThere is no fault alarm in winter time.Wirings on Vacon drive:3-phase power connections L1, L2, L3Motor connection U, V, WDrive enable in forward directionSpeed control potentiometerThere is no external Temp sensor connected nor Motor has any overheat temp sensor.I don’t know why the NC contact changes to NO giving fault alarmAnyone got experience on VACON drives on faults like above?Also how to program NXS Vacon drive etc.Any thoughts, recommendations highly appreciated.Let me know if any further information is needed.Thanks

Okay, this is a classic problem exacerbated by temperature, pointing towards a few likely culprits. Let's break it down and then discuss solutions, including programming.

Understanding the Problem

The fact that the fault happens predominantly in the summer, when the ambient temperature rises, strongly suggests heat-related issues within the VFD itself. Here's a rundown of the possibilities: VFD Overtemperature

The most probable cause. VFDs generate significant heat during operation. They have internal temperature sensors and will trip if they exceed a defined threshold to protect their components (IGBTs, capacitors, etc.). This is the most likely scenario.


Component Degradation

The heat might be accelerating the degradation of components within the VFD. Electrolytic capacitors, for example, have a limited lifespan and their performance degrades faster at higher temperatures. This can lead to instability or failure that triggers the fault.

Loose Connections

Heat can cause expansion and contraction, potentially leading to intermittent loose connections. While not the
primary suspect, it's something to check.

Marginal Motor

While you say there's no motor temperature sensor, the motor could still be contributing. If the motor is already running hot for some reason (overloaded, under-ventilated, bearing issues), the added heat from the ambient environment might push it over the edge, causing it to draw excessive current and triggering an overload-related fault (even if the VFD doesn't directly measure motor temperature). This is less likely, but worth considering.

Sensitivity to Line Voltage Fluctuations

Power grids can be more stressed during summer months due to increased AC demand. If the line voltage drops excessively, it can cause the VFD to trip.

Troubleshooting Steps
1. Check VFD Cooling



Cleanliness

The most common cause. Is the VFD heatsink and fan clean and free of dust and debris? A layer of dust acts as an insulator, significantly reducing cooling efficiency. This is the first thing you should check! Use compressed air to clean it thoroughly. Make sure to disconnect power before doing this.

Fan Operation

Is the VFD fan running properly? Listen for unusual noises. If the fan is weak or failing, it needs to be replaced.


Ventilation

Ensure the VFD is mounted with adequate clearance for proper airflow. Are the ventilation openings in the cabinet blocked?

Ambient Temperature

Measure the temperature directly around the VFD. If it's significantly higher than the general room temperature, there's a local hot spot. Try to improve air circulation.2.

Identify the Specific Fault

This is
critical. The NC contact changing state is just an indicator of a fault. You need to access the VFD's fault history/log to see exactly what triggered the trip. This will provide a much more precise direction for troubleshooting. Most VFDs store a history of the last few faults.

VACON NXS Manual

You must have the VACON NXS manual. It will tell you how to access the fault history. Look for parameters related to "Fault History," "Fault Log," or "Last Trip." The manual can be found with google search.

Common Faults to Look For



Overtemperature

Something like "Over Temperature," "Heat Sink Over Temp," or "OT."

Overcurrent

"OC" or "Over Current."


Overvoltage/Undervoltage

"OV" or "UV."

Ground Fault

"GF"


Motor Overload

"OL" (though less likely given no motor sensor).3.

Wiring and Connections



Power Connections

Ensure the three-phase power connections (L1, L2, L3) are tight and secure.


Motor Connections

Likewise, check the motor connections (U, V, W) at both the VFD and the motor terminal box.

Control Wiring

Verify the drive enable wiring and the potentiometer wiring are secure.4.

Voltage Monitoring



Input Voltage

Use a multimeter to monitor the three-phase input voltage to the VFD, especially during peak load times (when the problem is most likely to occur). Look for significant voltage drops. If the voltage is consistently low, you may need to consult with the facility's electrical maintenance team.5.

Motor Inspection (less likely but good to check)



Motor Overload

While you mentioned no motor temperature sensor, is the motor possibly overloaded? Can the motor shaft be rotated freely? Does the motor sound normal? Excessive noise can indicate bearing issues. Is there proper ventilation of the motor?


Nameplate

Check the motor nameplate voltage, current, and frequency ratings to ensure they match the application.6.

Component Examination (Advanced - Disconnect Power and Exercise Caution!)

This should only be done by a qualified technician.



Capacitors

Visually inspect the electrolytic capacitors inside the VFD. Look for bulging, leaking, or any signs of physical damage. If you see any of these, the VFD needs to be serviced or replaced.

Recommendations


Prioritize Cooling

Thoroughly clean the VFD's cooling system and ensure adequate ventilation. This is often the only thing needed.

Investigate Fault History

Find the specific fault code in the VFD's history. This is the most important step for accurate diagnosis.


Monitor Voltage

Check the incoming line voltage, especially when the problem occurs.

Consider an Enclosure Cooler/AC

If the ambient temperature is consistently high, consider installing an enclosure cooler or air conditioner to keep the VFD within its operating temperature range.


Replace the VFD

If the problem persists after checking all the above, the VFD may be nearing the end of its life and need to be replaced. Consider upgrading to a newer model with better thermal management.

Motor Assessment

Have the motor inspected to rule out any issues contributing to the heat.

VACON NXS Programming BasicsProgramming the VACON NXS typically involves these steps (refer to the manual for exact parameter numbers):1.

Access the Parameter Menu

Usually involves pressing a "Menu" or "Enter" button on the keypad.2.

Navigate

Use up/down arrow buttons to navigate through the parameter groups and individual parameters.3.

Select a Parameter

Press "Enter" to select a parameter to edit.4.

Edit the Value

Use up/down arrows to change the value of the parameter.5.

Save the Value

Press "Enter" to save the new value.6.

Exit the Menu

Press "Menu" or "Esc" to exit the menu.

Commonly Programmed Parameters



Motor Data

Motor Voltage Motor Current Motor Frequency Motor Speed (RPM) Motor Power (kW/HP)

Ramp-Up/Ramp-Down Time

Acceleration and deceleration rates.

Minimum/Maximum Frequency

Sets the speed limits.


Control Mode

V/Hz control, sensorless vector control, etc. (V/Hz is common for simpler applications).

Fault Reset

How to reset the drive after a fault (manual or auto-reset).
Be very careful with auto-reset! Only use it if you understand the cause of the fault and are sure it won't cause further damage.

Digital Input/Output Configuration

Assigning functions to digital inputs and outputs (e.g., drive enable, fault relay output).

Analog Input/Output Configuration

Configuring the analog input for speed control (e.g., 4-20mA, 0-10V) and analog outputs for monitoring.


Fault Settings

(Less common, but potentially relevant) Adjusting the trip levels for overcurrent, overvoltage, etc. Do not change these without a thorough understanding of the system and the potential consequences.

Important Notes



Read the Manual

The VACON NXS manual is essential. Download it from the VACON (now Danfoss) website. It contains detailed information on all parameters, fault codes, and troubleshooting procedures.


Backup

Before making any changes, back up the current parameter settings if possible. This will allow you to easily revert to the original configuration if needed.*

Safety:
Always disconnect power before working on the VFD. Be aware of the high voltage present in the drive, even after power is disconnected.Let me know the fault code you find in the history log, and we can give you more specific guidance. Good luck! Flag for review

Previous Question Next Question