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Section 5
Start-Up
This section of the manual contains start-up procedures
needed for the initial start-up of the eddy-current clutch.
Before turning AC power ON, read these instructions and
those provided with the controller. Refer any questions
regarding start-up service to DSI/Dynamatic's Service
Department. Do not proceed if you are unsure. These
start-up procedures also apply to start-ups after the
replacement or repair of a unit.
Preliminary Checks
Before starting the motor or applying power to the
controller, make the following visual inspections. The
disconnect switch should be locked out.
1. Visually inspect the motor and clutch. Are they safe to
operate; and are all required guards and safety
devices installed and checked out?
2. Visually inspect all electrical connections. Make sure
they are tight and not grounding or shorting. Look for
individual strands of wire that may be sticking out of a
lug or a terminal.
3. Visually compare the wiring with the connection
diagrams and any other certified drawings supplied to
make sure the unit is properly wired.
4. Visually inspect the starting equipment to make sure
fuses, circuit breaker and motor overload heaters are
sized and installed properly.
5. Visually inspect all safety interlocks and machine
support equipment. Verify that all safety interlocks are
connected and that they will perform their functions.
Support equipment, such as blowers, heaters,
handling equipment and any other devices required
to permit the machine to operate, must be checked
out prior to starting the clutch.
Initial Start-up
Do not apply power to any machine until this procedure
instructs you to do so. Follow instructions; each step has
a purpose.
1. Make sure the machine is ready to be started and all
personnel in the area are alerted.
2. Prepare to start the AC motor to check the direction
of rotation. If the driven machine can be damaged by
reverse rotation, temporarily disconnect the
output shaft. For checking rotation, it is recommended
that two people be involved, one to operate the
pushbuttons and the other to watch the motor. Turn
AC power ON to the motor starting equipment. The
electronic controller for the clutch should not be
started yet.
3. Using a voltmeter, check the three-phase power to
determine that proper voltage is present at all three
phases.
4. Bump the motor by starting and quickly stopping it.
While the motor is coasting to a stop, observe the
direction of rotation through the grille on clutch
housing. If the direction is not correct, turn AC power
OFF, lock out the disconnect switch and reverse any
two of the three incoming power leads; then repeat
the test to ensure proper rotation.
5. Start the AC motor and observe its operation. Listen
for any abnormal noise or vibration. Using a clamp-
on ammeter, check motor current. All three phases
should be balanced. If any defect is detected shut it
down immediately and correct the problem. If the
output shaft was disconnected in Step 2, turn AC
power, OFF, lock out the disconnect switch and
reconnect the output shaft. Replace the guards.
6. Turn AC power ON and start the motor. Turn AC
power ON to the clutch controller. Turn up the speed
setting potentiometer until the clutch is running at a
slow speed. If the unit does not run, consult the
instruction manual for the eddy-current controller.
Run the unit with no load and observe its operation.
When normal operation is attained, increase its speed
to above minimum and load the clutch. Observe motor
current; it should be below the full load rating when at
a steady-state condition.
7. A full load test should be run before turning the
machine over to production. Run with a full load and
observe all operating parameters. Check motor
current and record it for future reference.
When the start-up is complete and normal operating
conditions are attained, describe normal indicators to
operating personnel so they will know how to detect
abnormal operation. Be sure they know whom to advise
when any abnormality arises. The following paragraph
lists some of the indicators to watch for.
Signs of Trouble
There are several indications of trouble to watch for. Since
most machines run the same product at the same speed,
the operator should become familiar with normal
conditions. An increase in air discharge temperature of
the clutch could be an indication of blocked air passages
or high temperature ambient. If high temperature is noted,
the problem should be reported and investigated.
Continuing to run may result in clutch damage.
Unusual noise or vibration is a sign of mechanical
problems. There are several causes, such as a shift or
loosening of the base, a broken or unbalanced
CAUTION
: Rotating machinery and above ground
electrical potentials can be hazardous. Alert all
personnel in the area that the unit is being checked out
and should be considered running. Do not work alone.
Your life may depend on prompt help: someone
capable of stopping the machine, disconnecting the
AC power and capable of providing lifesaving
assistance. Know where the Stop pushbutton and
disconnect switch are located.