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ErrorLib — Industrial Fault Code Library

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F42

Phase UW Short

Allen-Bradley · PowerFlex 4M Adjustable Frequency

What does F42 mean?

An excessive current flow, indicative of a short circuit, has been detected between the drive's output terminals U and W. This typically signifies a phase-to-phase short in the motor windings or the cabling, which can cause severe damage to the motor or drive's output stage if not immediately addressed.

Common Causes

  • Phase-to-phase short circuit within the motor windings between U and W due to insulation failure.
  • Damaged motor cable insulation between the U and W conductors, causing a short circuit within the cable.
  • Contamination or metallic debris across the drive's output terminals U (T1) and W (T3).
  • Incorrect wiring or loose strands causing a direct connection between U and W at the motor or drive terminals.

Repair Steps & Checklist

Click steps to track your progress.

  1. 1

    Disconnect motor leads U, V, W from the drive's output terminals (T1, T2, T3). Measure resistance between motor terminals U and W with a multimeter.

  2. 2

    Visually inspect the motor cable conductors for phases U and W for insulation damage, pinching, or external shorting paths.

  3. 3

    Inspect drive output terminals T1 and T3 for any foreign conductive material, loose wire strands, or signs of arcing.

  4. 4

    Perform an insulation resistance test (megohm) between motor phase U and phase W at the motor terminals after disconnecting the cable.

  5. 5

    If the motor cable is suspected, disconnect it at both ends and perform an insulation resistance test between its U and W conductors.

Browse all codes in this manual (24)
Verified technical data. Last updated: April 2026

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F100Parameter ChecksumF12Hardware OvercurrentF122I/O Board Fail
Source: Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 4M Adjustable Frequency
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