Main — Electric Motor Repair

 When an electric motor is malfunctioning (or the system that it’s running is not performing as expected) electrical tests can be used to gain considerable insight as to what might be causing problems. Using a multifunction electrical tester to check resistance, amps, capacitance, and insulation resistance can be highly effective in troubleshooting most problems. However, with an electrical tester in-hand, it becomes easier to overlook many other potential sources of problems. As a technician, you must never put down your common sense; your multi-meter and your megger don’t replace your brain.  Video Synopsis Amps: An amp meter is arguably the...

 In most circumstances, electric motor problems manifest themselves electrically, and electrical testing equipment is necessary for proper troubleshooting. In some cases, however, motor failure is mechanical, and can be assessed without analyzing any electrical components. Mechanical failure can often be diagnosed with your ears, and sense of touch. Loud sounds and excessive heat coming from a motor are often indicative of a mechanical problem. Bearing failure and inadequate ventilation are the leading causes of mechanical failure. Video Synopsis Mechanical Failure: There are few moving parts in an electric motor, so there are only a handful of mechanical points of failure....

Water pumps are a common application of electric motors. Keeping in mind that this course was designed with water-company employees in mind, this video is one of the most important portions of the class. David alludes to the existence of non-submersible pumps, but the people who were signed up for the course consistently have to work with submersible pumps. Troubleshooting of non-submersible pumps is typically less difficult, and the information provided in this lesson should be still be applicable. Video Synopsis Pump Components: A pump is a standard electric motor with an impeller attached and added components to protect it...

For more information about the effects of repair on motor efficiency, visit the EASA website.

 In this segment of our AC motor training course, David discusses the mechanism that causes three-phase electric motors to function. He also discusses differences between three-phase AC motors and other electric motors. This portion of the video might seem overly technical or unnecessary, but when attempting a repair, it is vitally important to understand how a machine works. If you lack understanding of the basic mechanism of a motor, how can you hope to repair it properly? Or more aptly put by the course instructor, “When you understand how stuff works, it’s a lot easier to fix!”   Video Synopsis...