Seven items to be supervised in the operation of agricultural electric motors

Seven Key Points to Monitor During the Operation of Agricultural Electric Motors

Source: China Bearing Network | Date: 2013-05-28

Agricultural electric motors are widely used due to their convenience and fewer mechanical issues compared to diesel or gasoline engines. However, if not properly monitored during operation, they can easily overheat and get damaged. To ensure safe and efficient operation, there are seven critical points that should be closely observed. **1. Motor Temperature Rise** The temperature rise of a motor refers to the difference between its operating temperature and the ambient temperature. Each motor has a specific temperature limit based on the insulation class used. For example, Class B insulation allows a maximum temperature rise of 75°C. Monitoring the temperature is one of the most direct ways to assess the motor's condition. In rural areas, operators often use touch to check for overheating, but this method is limited. Installing voltmeters and ammeters is a more reliable way to monitor the temperature rise and prevent damage. **2. Motor Movement, Vibration, and Smell** During normal operation, the motor should run smoothly with no unusual noise or vibration. Any strange sounds like screeching or humming, along with a burning smell, may indicate a problem. A burnt odor could signal overheated insulation, while oil smells might suggest bearing dryness. Regular checks of the motor’s movement and smell can help identify early signs of failure. **3. Operating Current** The current drawn by the motor under load is known as the operating current. It should not exceed the rated value specified on the nameplate. Additionally, the three-phase currents should be balanced, with a difference of no more than 10%. Unbalanced currents or missing phase operation can lead to serious damage. Ensuring proper phase balance and using an ammeter for larger motors is essential. **4. Power Supply Voltage** The motor’s operating voltage should remain within 10% of its rated voltage. For a 380V motor, this means the actual voltage should be between 242V and 418V. If the voltage drops below 242V, the load should be reduced. Imbalanced three-phase voltages can cause excessive heating and shorten the motor’s lifespan. A voltmeter and transfer switch are recommended for real-time monitoring. **5. Fuse Condition** Fuses serve as a critical protection device against short circuits. If a fuse blows, it can lead to phase loss, which is a common cause of motor failure. Operators should regularly check the fuses and ensure they are correctly sized—typically 1.5 to 3 times the motor’s rated current. Proper selection helps avoid unnecessary trips and protects the motor from damage. **6. Transmission Equipment Status** Check the pulleys, couplings, and conveyor belts for looseness or slippage. A loose belt or damaged joint can affect performance and lead to premature wear. Regular inspection ensures smooth and efficient operation. **7. Bearing Condition** Bearings play a vital role in motor performance. Rolling bearings (common in small agricultural motors) should not exceed 95°C, while sliding bearings should stay below 80°C. Overheating bearings can lead to grease leakage and mechanical failure. Regular lubrication and timely maintenance are necessary to prevent costly repairs. In summary, maintaining an agricultural motor requires careful attention to these seven key areas. By monitoring current, temperature, voltage, and mechanical conditions, operators can detect issues early, reduce downtime, and extend the motor’s service life. Always inspect and address any abnormalities promptly to ensure safe and efficient operation.
**Related Bearing Knowledge** - Four-row tapered roller bearing installation - Double row angular contact ball bearing inspection - Thrust bearing device usage after maintenance - NTN bearing faults and damages - Detailed information on "rolling bearing" problems This article was originally published at http://www.chinabearing.net Please visit China Bearing Network for more information. Previous: Analysis of NTN Bearing Failures Next: SBI Company Interpretation: Use and Characteristics of Slewing Bearings

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