28

Brake Check Fault

Danfoss · VLT HVAC Drive FC 102

What does 28 mean?

An issue was detected during the drive's internal mechanical brake check routine. This can indicate a problem with the mechanical brake itself, its control circuitry, or the drive's monitoring, potentially leading to unsafe operation or motor movement when stopped.

Common Causes

  • Mechanical brake pads worn beyond safe operating tolerance or seizing due to contamination.
  • Brake control circuit malfunction, such as a failed brake solenoid coil (open or short circuit) or a faulty brake relay.
  • Brake feedback switch (e.g., limit switch or proximity sensor) stuck, misaligned, or having an intermittent wiring fault.
  • Drive parameter P12-23 (Brake release delay) or P12-24 (Brake engage delay) configured incorrectly for the specific motor and brake assembly.
  • Insufficient brake torque (e.g., Parameter P12-21, Brake torque) set below the required holding torque for the application.

Repair Steps & Checklist

Click steps to track your progress.

  1. 1

    1. De-energize the drive and test the continuity of the brake solenoid coil at its terminals (e.g., X1-1, X1-2), comparing the measured resistance to the manufacturer's specification.

  2. 2

    2. Visually inspect the mechanical brake assembly for wear, damage, or obstructions that prevent free movement; manually actuate the brake (if safe) to observe its operation.

  3. 3

    3. Verify the operation of the brake feedback switch by checking continuity across its contacts in both engaged and disengaged states, ensuring proper mechanical activation.

  4. 4

    4. Review and adjust drive parameters P12-23 (Brake release delay) and P12-24 (Brake engage delay) to match the specifications of the motor and brake unit.

  5. 5

    5. Measure the output voltage at the drive's brake control terminals (e.g., U, V, W for AC brake, or dedicated DC output) when the brake is commanded to release (e.g., 230VAC).

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Verified technical data. Last updated: March 2026

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Source: Danfoss VLT HVAC Drive FC 102