Practical approaches to mitigate mechanical failures in ASD driven equipment

Mechanical failures in adjustable speed drive (ASD) driven equipment (motors, fans, compressors, gearboxes, rolls, etc.) are a cause for concern and, while many solutions have been put forward, there is no single solution readily available and known to be fully effective. In essence, these failures are complicated and are often the result of a combination of application related issues. These issues pose a challenge in a wide variety of applications and a wide variety of industries. This paper sets out to provide, through a series of case histories, a guideline for approaches that could be followed to minimize the impact of the mechanical problems that are directly associated with ASD driven equipment and thus supply a path to improved system reliability.