Many industrial facilities utilize conveyors in their respective manufacturing processes. In most cases, the drive motors for these conveyor systems are fractional horsepower. The size of these motors doesn’t make them any less critical than much larger motors, but it does make them less accessible for motor testing.

In the image to the left, we find a distribution panel that provides 3 phase power to approximately 70 motors. It would be extremely difficult, as well as impractical to attempt electric motor testing all the individual motors. It is possible to connect the motor tester to the panel supply and monitor the balance of voltage and current as well as power quality, for every load fed from the distribution panel (that is active or energized), with just one test. Given that all are motors, we should see balance.

If you don’t have balance you can then monitor individual loads with a multi-meter for voltage and current. A problem like a blown fuse or an open leg on individual loads could cause severe overheating and result in failed motors.

For more information on motor testing, consider attending one of Snell Group’s electric motor testing training courses. Don’t forget to ask about our new Electric Motor Testing Diagnostics Wall Charts. They are 36” x 48” and provide a wealth of information to assist in analyzing energized and de-energized motor test data, regardless of what instruments you may utilize.