Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: sfav8r, Location: San Francisco Bay Area
Asked on: Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at 7:36 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 4:10 am EDT
Question: We have a client that has 2 ABB 550-ACH VFDs installed. They each drive a Baldor 7.5hp 3P motor. The first one failed in December of 2009 after about 2 years of service. Now, the 2nd one will only operate in manual mode. I really hate to just order an identical replacement for this because I think at the price they paid, my client should get better life out of them. When the first one went, I figured it was just a fluke, but now that the 2nd one went I'm not so sure. What is a reasonable life span for a VFD like this? It has a relatively easy life. The 2 motors are for circulating warm water for the heating system. One runs and the other is an "emergency" backup. We rotate the "active" motor every 30 days. Any thoughts on how long they should last or another brand that may perform better?PS - the enviornment does not appear to be a factor. Good ventilation, good motors, proper alignment, etc.Thanks
Reasonable Life Span for ABB 550-ACH VFDs
Generally, VFDs of this type are expected to have a lifespan of 10-15 years under normal operating conditions. However, environmental factors, usage patterns, and maintenance practices can significantly affect their longevity.
Possible Factors Contributing to Early Failure Power Quality
Surges, spikes, or voltage imbalances can damage VFD components.
Overloading
Operating the VFD above its rated capacity can lead to overheating and premature failure.
Insufficient Cooling
Improper ventilation or clogged air filters can prevent the VFD from dissipating heat effectively.
Component Degradation
Over time, capacitors, transistors, and other components can degrade and fail.
Maintenance Negligence
Lack of regular maintenance, such as dust cleaning and firmware updates, can accelerate deterioration.
Other Considerations Duty Cycle
The VFD's duty cycle, including start-stop frequency and load variations, can impact its lifespan.
Environment
Exposure to moisture, dust, or extreme temperatures can shorten the VFD's life.
Manufacturer Quality
Different manufacturers have varying levels of quality control and component reliability.
Alternative VFD Brands
If you are considering an alternative brand, some reputable options include: Danfoss Eaton Mitsubishi Electric Rockwell Automation Schneider ElectricRecommendations Investigate the Cause of Failure
Determine the root cause of the VFD failures, such as power quality issues or overloading, to prevent recurrence.
Consider Upgrading
If the VFDs are operating in a demanding application or are a critical component, consider upgrading to a more robust model with higher ratings for power quality tolerance, overload capacity, and cooling.
Regular Maintenance
Implement a regular maintenance schedule that includes dust cleaning, firmware updates, and component inspections.*
Contact ABB Support: Reach out to ABB technical support to inquire about potential known issues or design improvements related to the 550-ACH model. Flag for review