Servo Motors are used in equipment where precise control of the shaft position is needed. Servo Motors run on many of the same principles as regular AC and DC motors save for the fact that they have a positioning device attached to provide feedback for a closed loop system control. Being successful in maintaining a servo system means understanding some of the common problems that can occur.
Servo Motor Running Hot
A motor running hot is a serious problem that can eventually lead to a catastrophic failure for the motor or even other parts of the machine. Overheating can be caused by an overcurrent condition on the machine. Mechanical binding, brake issues or overload issues should be explored first. Once all mechanical issues have been ruled out, it is important to inspect the output shaft of the motor and spin it to check for bearing failure. Next you will want to check the windings for any issues such as contamination or internal shorts.
Servo Motor Chatter
This problem can be either intermittent or constant but is characterized by the motor standing still and making a chattering or buzzing noise. The motors output shaft will typically be at a standstill but possibly oscillate slightly. This chattering is usually cause by a positioning error. Now non failure related caused of this could be a set-up issue or loss of parameters within the drive module. The first thing to do would be run through the set-up procedure for the motor and drive you are working with – specifically if the drive has an auto-tune feature. If the drive had been inadvertently reset, this will most likely solve the issue. If not, the servo most likely has a feedback failure and will need repair.
Servo Motor High Frequency Noise
This problem is characterized by a high frequency squeal or whine coming from the motor. Most often this is a bearing problem but can also be related to other mechanical issues within the motor. If your motor has a brake, there is a chance that dust from the pads has crept into the bearing space and entered the bearing. Usually servo bearings are shielded but still can creep into the bearings drying up the lubricant. If running through normal troubleshooting does not fix the issue, such as settings and parameters, then the servo needs service most likely involving a bearing change. Do not let this problem linger, as it will get worse over time and lead to the motor failing.
Whatever fault your equipment may be giving you, trust the experts at Global Electronic Services to repair your equipment and get your machine back up and running. Be sure to visit us online at www.gesrepair.com or call us at 1-877-249-1701 to learn more about our services. We’re proud to offer Surplus, Complete Repair and Maintenance on all types of Industrial Electronics, Servo Motors, AC and DC Motors, Hydraulics and Pneumatics. Please subscribe to our YouTube page and Like Us on Facebook! Thank you!