What happens when you don't service variable speed drives?

And it isn't surprising given the conditions these ABB ACS 550 drives were enduring.

When you don't service your drives, the heatsinks become blocked (even if the drives are located in a clean area).

This is an easy fix, but if left unchecked it leads to:

  • The drive overheating
  • Tripping (drive overtemp)
  • Reduction in lifespan
  • Premature failure
  • Unplanned downtime
  • Costly repairs
  • Unplanned replacement
a clogged heatsink on a variable speed drive

When you do service your drives (and so have clean heatsinks)

  • The drive is properly cooled
  • There's a reduction in tripping faults
  • An increased lifespan
  • Reduction in premature failures
  • Reduction in unplanned downtime
  • Reduction in costly repairs
  • No unexpected replacements

The difference it makes can clearly be seen in the pictures below: from 55.1 degrees before to 36.5 degrees after.

reduction in temperature of a variable speed drive after servicing

And the difference between paying for a repair or a replacement drive is considerable - when you compare it to the cost of an annual service contract.