Not every developing fault requires sophisticated testing equipment.
Some of the most valuable information about an HV motor can be found during a careful visual inspection.
Things worth looking for include:
- Oil contamination
- Cracked insulation
- Loose wedges or bracing
- Discoloured winding insulation
- Dust build-up
- Damaged terminal connections
- Evidence of overheating
- Moisture ingress
Small changes often indicate a much larger underlying issue.
A five-minute inspection during a shutdown can identify problems that, if left unnoticed, may develop into significant failures.
Technology has transformed condition monitoring, but experienced eyes remain one of the most valuable diagnostic tools available.
