Reforming the capacitors 9
2
Reforming the capacitors
Contents of this chapter
This chapter contains the instructions on how to reform the converter capacitors. It
contains three alternative methods.
Overview of the reforming
Electrolytic DC capacitors in the converter module DC link need to be reformed (re-aged) if
the module has been non-operational for a year or more. The reforming time depends on
how long the converter has been non-operational and on the converter module type.
Without reforming, the capacitors can get damaged when the converter starts to operate.
If the converter has been non-operational for less than one year, the capacitors do not
need reforming.
Besides the reforming methods presented in this manual, ABB can supply you with ready-
made reforming devices, such as FINERO FST-DCP 1500-05 and FUG HCK 800-2000.
For more information, contact your local ABB representative.
Reforming time
The intermediate circuit (DC link) of the converter is connected to its nominal voltage for
the reforming time to “wake up” the capacitors. The diagram below shows the required
reforming time.
If the converter has been stocked (non-operational) for one to two years (graph a), it can
be reformed with power on for 30 minutes method.
If the converter has been stocked (non-operational) for one to three years (graph b), it can
be reformed with power on for 30 minutes method. See section
on page
