F8

Heatsink Over-temperature

Allen-Bradley · PowerFlex 40 Adjustable Frequency

What does F8 mean?

The drive's heatsink temperature has exceeded its safe operating limit, indicating insufficient cooling. This can be caused by obstructions, high ambient temperatures, or a malfunctioning cooling fan. This is an Auto-Reset/Run type fault configurable with parameters A092 and A093.

Common Causes

  • Obstructed airflow to the drive heatsink due to dust, debris, or improper cabinet ventilation, preventing heat dissipation.
  • Failure of the drive's internal cooling fan or external cabinet cooling fan, leading to inadequate forced air cooling.
  • High ambient temperature in the control cabinet or operating environment exceeding the drive's specified maximum limit.
  • Excessive loading of the drive, causing it to generate more heat than the cooling system can dissipate (e.g., running above continuous current rating).
  • Damaged thermal sensor on the heatsink providing an inaccurate temperature reading to the drive.

Repair Steps & Checklist

Click steps to track your progress.

  1. 1

    Inspect the drive's heatsink fins for accumulation of dust, lint, or debris and clean thoroughly using compressed air or a vacuum.

  2. 2

    Verify the operation of the drive's internal cooling fan by checking for airflow or visual rotation during operation.

  3. 3

    Measure the ambient temperature inside the control cabinet near the drive using a thermometer and ensure it is within the drive's specified operating range.

  4. 4

    Check the cabinet's ventilation system (e.g., filters, intake/exhaust fans) for proper operation, cleanliness, and clear airflow paths.

  5. 5

    Confirm the motor load is not consistently exceeding the drive's continuous current rating by monitoring output current during typical operation.

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Verified technical data. Last updated: March 2026

Related Faults

Source: Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 40 Adjustable Frequency
Allen-Bradley F8 (Heatsink Over-temperature) — ErrorLib Tec… | ErrorLib