Optimizing Motor Start Frequency for 13000 Volt Switch Gear

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the operational limits and safety concerns related to starting a 13000 volt motor that powers a compressor. Participants explore the frequency of motor starts and the implications for overheating and potential fire hazards in the switchgear.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the safe frequency for starting a 13000 volt motor without risking overheating or fire in the switchgear, noting that their compressor was started six times in five hours before a fire incident occurred.
  • Another participant questions the necessity of seeking opinions from the forum instead of consulting the motor manufacturer for insights on the issue.
  • A third participant acknowledges the concern regarding the number of starts and emphasizes that overheating of the rotor windings is a primary concern, but suggests that attributing the fire solely to the number of starts may be an oversimplification.
  • This participant lists several factors that should be investigated, including the adequacy of the switchgear bus rating, the rating of the breaker, maintenance history, and the presence and functionality of protection mechanisms in the switchgear.
  • A later reply mentions that after repairing the switchgear, the motor burned up on the third attempt to start it, indicating ongoing issues.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between the frequency of motor starts and the fire incident. While some acknowledge the potential for overheating, others argue that further investigation is necessary to determine the exact cause of the fire, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of detailed information on the switchgear's specifications, maintenance history, and the specific conditions under which the motor was operated. The discussion does not resolve the underlying causes of the incidents described.

kraxup
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I am hoping that someone on here can give me some insight on what caused this. I have my idea; however, I would like someone to give their opinion also.

At work we have a 13000 volt motor that powers our compressor. How frequent can that size motor be started without causing the motor to overheat or the switch gear to catch fire?
We started this compressor 6 times in approx 5 hours and on the last start the switch gear buss caught fire.
I know a 4160 volt motor can only be tried 2 times within 30 minutes then it must rest for 4 hours before another attempt.
 
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kraxup said:
I am hoping that someone on here can give me some insight on what caused this. I have my idea; however, I would like someone to give their opinion also.

At work we have a 13000 volt motor that powers our compressor. How frequent can that size motor be started without causing the motor to overheat or the switch gear to catch fire?
We started this compressor 6 times in approx 5 hours and on the last start the switch gear buss caught fire.
I know a 4160 volt motor can only be tried 2 times within 30 minutes then it must rest for 4 hours before another attempt.

When you talked to the motor manufacturer, what did they say? Why are you asking us?
 
Your concern about the number of starts per hour for large motors is correct.
Overheating of the rotor windings & rotor structure is the primary concern in that case.
To say that starting the motor several times in a few hours caused the switchgear to catch fire is a
stretch however. A detailed investigation would be in order here to determine that exact cause of the fire.
Just a few of the things to be considered here are:
Is the switchgear bus rated adequately to serve the amount and type of all connected loads?
Is the breaker in the switchgear rated sufficiently to serve the motor?
When was the last time the breaker feeding the motor cleaned, and tested for proper timing and operation?
What type of protection is present in the switchgear, is it set properly and is it functioning ?
When was the last time the switchgear bus inspected/cleaned and tested?

There are many more things that should be investigated. I hope that nobody was injured or killed as a result of this incident.
 
Thank your for your reply. After fixing the switch gear and attempting to start the motor, on the 3rd attempt the motor burned up.
 

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