If your business needs DC motor applications to operate, you want to make sure the motors stay in good condition. This ensures long service and few downtime issues. However, some people fail to give their direct current motors proper maintenance, and these tips can help you take better care of them.
Keeping Them Clean
Do your motors run in dusty or dirty conditions? If so, you need to pay special attention to cleaning. Standard motors need checking once a month, but for dusty environments, you should check them weekly or even daily. Even a well-made DC motor can collect dirt and debris and may start to overheat. Heat is one of the biggest enemies of electric motors because it can damage components and shorten their life expectancies.
Pay Attention to Unusual Odors
If you notice odd smells from one of your motors, check into the matter closer. This may be a sign of overheating. Look for debris in the vents. Make sure nothing is in the drive system too.
Vibrations or Noises
You and your maintenance staff know what a smooth running DC motor sounds like. If something does not sound right, you may have a serious problem. The motor may be out of balance or have other issues. The sooner you see to these problems, the less downtime you may have to deal with.
Check Bearings
Worn bearings may cause your motor to make noise. During a routine inspection, touch the housing to see if it is hot. A housing which is too warm may have bearing problems.
Commentators and Brushes
Many direct current motors depend on commutators and brushes. These parts can wear quickly, and they need frequent inspections. Make sure they are clean and if you notice grooving or scratches, you should replace them. Keep these parts on hand for easy access.