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Ambient Conditions: Why Location Matters
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Ambient Conditions: Why Location Matters
Motors, VFDs, and gearboxes aren't delicate flowers—but they DO care about their environment. Install them in the wrong conditions, and you'll face premature failures, derating, or safety hazards.
Ambient Conditions: Why Location Matters
Motors, VFDs, and gearboxes aren't delicate flowers—but they DO care about their environment. Install them in the wrong conditions, and you'll face premature failures, derating, or safety hazards.
Temperature: The Silent Killer
Motors:
Standard rating: 40°C ambient (104°F)
Above 40°C: Derate by ~1% per degree C (e.g., at 50°C, use only 90% of rated power)
Condensation: Can cause winding insulation failure, bearing corrosion
Solution: Use appropriate IP rating, install drain plugs at lowest point, use anti-condensation heaters (small resistive heaters that keep motor above dew point when stopped)
VFDs:
Conformal coating: Premium VFDs have coated circuit boards (protects against moisture and dust)
Cabinet heaters: Small heaters keep internal temp above dew point
IP65/NEMA 4X enclosures: For harsh environments
Gearboxes:
Seals are critical: Failed seals = water in oil = rust = failure
Breather plugs: Must be clean and functional (allows pressure equalization without water ingress)
Altitude: Thin Air = Less Cooling
The issue: Higher altitude = lower air density = less cooling capacity.
Motors:
Above 1,000m (3,300 ft): Derate by ~1% per 100m
Example: At 2,000m altitude, use only 90% of motor's rated power
Why? Less oxygen = less efficient cooling (motor runs hotter)
VFDs:
Same problem—heat sinks rely on air convection
Derate by ~1% per 100m above 1,000m
Or install forced-air cooling (fans)
Gearboxes:
Not significantly affected (oil cooling is internal)
Dust and Dirt: Choking Hazards
Motors:
Dust clogs cooling fins and blocks ventilation
Use TEFC (Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled) motors for dusty environments
Regular cleaning (compressed air annually)
VFDs:
Dust on heat sinks = overheating
Use sealed enclosures (IP54 or better) in dusty areas
Clean filters monthly
Gearboxes:
Dust infiltration through failed seals = abrasive contamination
