November 2008

Extend Motor Life
The benefits of Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) are well known and they are used in nearly every type of application but with the increased use of VFDs so have motor problems associated with shaft voltages and currents increased. Normally associated with medium and large electric machines, motor problems now appear in smaller motors due to the terminal motor voltage supplied by the VFD not being balanced or symmetrical. If this condition goes on unresolved, it can cause bearings to fail and severe damage to the motor.

As drive experts, Schneider Electric recommends that you utilize a load side reactor for your VFD to avoid experiencing this problem. Other options for protecting your motor from shaft voltage damage include using bearings with ceramic balls or improving grounding. If you continue to experience issues, you should contact your motor manufacturer or work with a Schneider Electric drives expert to isolate the problem.

For more information contact us at the email address below.

PowerPact Circuit Breakers for Control Panel Disconnects
Square D brand PowerPact® Molded Case Circuit Breakers provide unmatched flexibility through multiple mounting configurations, operators and standardized accessories. No other molded case circuit breaker provides key features such as identical mounting holes, handle locations and trim dimensions across the entire amperage range, which allows you to standardize equipment designs for 15A to 250A applications.

And with certifications covering both the US and international markets, performance ratings unparalleled in the industry, a variety of operating mechanisms including the popular IEC-style rotary handle and NEMA-style flange operators, numerous termination possibilities, and field installable accessories, the PowerPact Molded Case Circuit Breaker is clearly the optimum choice for control panel disconnect applications for Packaging machines.

To learn more about all the options and accessories available for the PowerPact Molded Case Circuit Breakers, view the product website or contact your local Square D distributor.

Visit us at: http://www.us.schneider-electric.com/materialhandling
Contact us: mh@us.schneider-electric.com.

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