F5

OverVoltage

Allen-Bradley · PowerFlex 4M Adjustable Frequency

What does F5 mean?

This fault indicates that the DC bus voltage within the drive has exceeded its maximum allowable limit. Common causes include high incoming AC line voltage, transient voltage spikes, or regenerative energy from the motor, especially during rapid deceleration. Regenerative energy occurs when the motor acts as a generator, feeding power back into the drive. Ignoring this fault can lead to premature component degradation or catastrophic failure of the drive's power section.

Common Causes

  • Incoming AC line voltage consistently exceeding the drive's maximum input voltage rating (e.g., >480V for a 400V class drive).
  • High inertia load decelerating too quickly, regenerating excessive energy back to the drive's DC bus.
  • Malfunctioning or undersized dynamic braking resistor unable to dissipate regenerative energy.
  • Transient voltage spikes on the AC supply line (e.g., from utility switching or nearby inductive loads).
  • Drive parameter P1-10 (Deceleration Time 1) set too short for the connected mechanical load's inertia.

Repair Steps & Checklist

Click steps to track your progress.

  1. 1

    Measure incoming AC line voltage at terminals L1, L2, L3 for phase-to-phase values and check for spikes.

  2. 2

    Increase the deceleration time parameter (e.g., P1-10) to allow for a slower and more controlled motor deceleration.

  3. 3

    Verify the braking resistor's resistance (Ohms) and power rating (Watts) match the drive's requirements and application demands.

  4. 4

    Check connections to the dynamic braking resistor terminals (e.g., BR+/BR-) for proper continuity and secure installation.

  5. 5

    Consider implementing an AC line reactor or RFI filter on the input to mitigate incoming voltage transients.

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Verified technical data. Last updated: March 2026

Related Faults

Source: Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 4M Adjustable Frequency