Schneider Electric Altivar 28

94 fault codes documented

-EEF

EEPROM Fault

This fault indicates an error within the drive controller's internal EEPROM memory, which stores configuration parameters and operational data. This can lead to incorrect settings being loaded or data corruption, preventing proper drive operation. A corrupted EEPROM can cause unpredictable behavior or prevent the drive from starting.

-InF

Internal Fault

This fault signifies a general internal malfunction within the drive controller, possibly related to internal circuitry or connections. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can sometimes induce such faults, or it could be a hardware failure. Continued operation with an internal fault is not possible and requires immediate attention to prevent further damage or unexpected behavior.

-ObF

Overvoltage During Deceleration

This fault occurs when the motor generates excessive regenerative energy back into the drive controller's DC bus during rapid deceleration or when driving an overhauling load (e.g., lowering a weight). This rapid increase in DC bus voltage can exceed safe limits and damage the drive's internal components if not dissipated properly.

-OCF

Overcurrent

This fault indicates that the drive controller has detected excessive current flowing to the motor. This can be caused by the motor accelerating too quickly, the drive or motor being undersized for the mechanical load, or a physical blockage preventing the motor from turning freely. Leaving this unresolved can damage the motor, drive controller, or connected machinery due to overheating or mechanical stress.

-OHF

Drive Controller Overload / Overheat

This fault indicates that the drive controller's internal temperature has exceeded its safe operating limits, often due to sustained high motor current or insufficient cooling. This protects the drive's power components from thermal damage. The fault is triggered when the drive controller's thermal state estimate reaches 118%, necessitating a cooldown period.

-OLF

Motor Overload

This fault indicates that the connected motor has experienced a prolonged overload condition, causing its estimated thermal state to exceed safe limits (118% as per page 75). This protects the motor windings from overheating and damage. It could be due to incorrect thermal protection settings or an undersized motor for the application, leading to premature motor failure.

-OPF

Motor Phase Failure

This fault indicates a loss of one or more phases at the output of the drive controller, meaning the motor is not receiving power on all its windings. This can be caused by loose motor connections, a damaged motor cable, or if the drive is significantly oversized for a small motor (making phase loss harder to detect). Operating with a missing motor phase will cause excessive heating and damage to the motor windings and potentially the drive.

-OSF

Overvoltage

This fault indicates that the DC bus voltage within the drive controller has exceeded a safe threshold during steady-state operation or acceleration. The primary cause is typically an input line voltage that is consistently higher than the drive controller's nominal rating, which can stress and damage internal power components like the DC bus capacitors and IGBTs.

-PHF

Input Phase Failure

This fault indicates a loss or significant imbalance of one or more input phases to the drive controller. Common causes include blown line fuses, loose connections, or an issue with the utility supply. Using a 3-phase drive on a single-phase supply without proper configuration can also trigger this. Operating with missing phases can lead to motor and drive damage due to unbalanced currents.

-SCF

Motor Short-Circuit

This fault indicates a short-circuit or ground fault has occurred at the output of the drive controller, either in the motor cables or within the motor itself. This is a critical fault that can severely damage the drive controller's output stage (IGBTs) if power is maintained. Immediate action is required to prevent component failure.

-SLF

Serial Link Failure

This fault occurs when communication is lost between the drive controller and its connected serial devices, such as a remote keypad display or a MODBUS master controller. This prevents external control, monitoring, or parameter adjustment of the drive, interrupting automated processes. The cause could be physical disconnection, incorrect settings, or device malfunction.

-tnF

Auto-Tuning Fault

This fault occurs during the auto-tuning process, indicating that the drive controller is unable to successfully tune itself to the connected motor. This is typically due to using a specialized motor or one whose power rating does not match the 'n' (nominal) or 'nld' (no-load) settings of the UFb parameter, preventing optimal motor control. Incorrect tuning can lead to inefficient operation or other motor control issues.

-USF

Undervoltage

This fault signifies that the input voltage to the drive controller has dropped below its minimum operating threshold or experienced a significant transient dip. A damaged pre-charge resistor or internal power supply issue could also prevent the DC bus from charging correctly. Operating with undervoltage can cause erratic drive behavior, prevent it from starting, or damage internal components over time.

A-17

Alarm Button (Remote Display)

This alarm is displayed on the remote terminal when a button has been held down for an extended period (more than 10 seconds), or if the keypad is disconnected. It suggests a physical issue with the terminal's buttons, or a faulty connection of the keypad itself, which can prevent proper input.

ASF

Angle Error

A fault related to an incorrect angle setting, which can impact precise motor control and synchronization. This typically indicates an issue with the feedback device or its configuration.

bLF

Brake Control Fault

Indicates a loss of one or more phases (3-phases) to the motor's brake. This fault can lead to uncontrolled motor movement if the brake fails to engage or disengage properly, posing a significant safety risk.

brF

Brake Feedback Error

A detected error in the feedback signal from the brake contactor. This means the drive cannot reliably confirm the state (engaged or disengaged) of the motor brake, which can lead to safety interlock issues or unexpected motor behavior.

CFF

Incorrect Configuration

An invalid configuration was detected at power on. This usually indicates corrupted or incompatible settings within the drive, preventing it from starting or operating correctly. Operating with an invalid configuration can lead to unpredictable behavior or component damage.

CFI

Invalid Configuration

This fault occurs when a configuration loaded into the drive, typically via a serial link, is inconsistent or corrupt. This means the drive cannot properly interpret or apply the loaded settings, which will prevent it from functioning correctly and could lead to operational errors.

CFI2

Configuration Transfer Error

A fault occurred during the transfer of configuration data to the drive. This could be due to an interruption, an incompatible configuration file, or an issue with the transfer medium (e.g., communication cable). The drive may not operate as intended with incomplete or corrupted settings.

CnF

Network Fault

This read-only fault code indicates a communication problem on an installed option card (e.g., a communication card). The exact nature of the fault depends on the specific network card. It means the drive cannot communicate correctly over the specified network, leading to a loss of external control, monitoring, or parameter access via that network.

COF

CANopen® Communication Interruption

Indicates an interruption in the CANopen® communication with the drive. This means the drive is no longer receiving commands or transmitting data via the CANopen® network, leading to a loss of control and operational status.

COM.E

Communication Error (Remote Display)

This error occurs on the remote display terminal, indicating a communication timeout (50 ms) after 20 attempts to establish or maintain communication with the drive. This typically points to a faulty connection between the terminal and the drive, or incorrect communication settings, leading to a loss of display functionality and control.

CPU.E

Other Detected Faults (Remote Display)

This is a generic fault code displayed on the remote terminal, indicating an unspecified internal error detected within its CPU or associated components. It typically signifies a hardware malfunction or a critical internal processing error that prevents normal operation of the terminal.

CrF

Capacitor precharge fault

A fault related to the capacitor precharge circuit, either due to a control issue with the precharge relay or a damaged precharge resistor. This fault prevents the drive from powering up correctly, indicating a critical internal hardware failure.

CSF

Channel Switching Error

A detected error during channel switching. This can occur in applications with dual control channels or safety functions, potentially leading to incorrect control source selection or unexpected behavior, posing a risk if the wrong control source is active.

dEU.E

Drive Disparity (Remote Display)

This error signifies that the remote display terminal detects an incompatibility between its own brand/model and that of the connected drive. This typically means the remote terminal is not designed to work with the specific drive model, preventing proper communication and operation.

dLF

Dynamic Load Error

A detected error related to the dynamic characteristics of the load. This could be an unexpected change in motor load, resonance, or mechanical issues affecting the motor's operation, which the drive's control system cannot compensate for.

E-18

Loss of VIA Analog Signal

This fault is triggered when the analog input signal at the VIA terminal drops below the detection level configured by parameter F633 and persists for 300 milliseconds or longer. It indicates a problem with the external analog signal source, its wiring, or the drive's input circuit. Loss of a critical control signal can lead to incorrect motor operation, uncontrolled speed, or system shutdown, posing a risk of process disruption, equipment damage, or safety hazards.

EEF

EEPROM memory fault

An internal EEPROM memory fault has occurred within the drive. This indicates a potential issue with the drive's non-volatile memory, which stores configuration and operating data, possibly leading to data corruption or loss.

EEF1

Control EEPROM Error

A detected error within the Control EEPROM. This non-volatile memory stores critical drive parameters and firmware. Corruption here can prevent the drive from booting, operating, or retaining its configuration, leading to a complete system failure.

EEF2

Power EEPROM Error

A detected error within the Power EEPROM. This memory typically stores power stage specific calibration data and hardware information. Corruption can lead to incorrect power stage operation, impacting motor control and potentially causing internal hardware damage.

EPF

External fault

This fault is triggered by an external condition or device connected to a logic input configured for external fault detection. This input is typically connected to a safety circuit, thermal switch, or another protective device. If the external fault condition persists, the drive will remain in a fault state, preventing operation until the external issue is cleared, ensuring machine and personnel safety.

EPF1

External Fault (LI/Bit)

An external fault detected from a logic input (LI) or a local link. This indicates that an external safety device, sensor, or interlock has triggered a fault condition, causing the drive to stop. The specific cause depends on the connected device and its state.

EPF2

External Fault (Communication)

An external interruption detected from a communication board. This indicates that a fault condition was received from an external system via a communication interface, causing the drive to trip. It implies an issue with the higher-level control system or communication link.

FbE

Function Block Error

A detected error within a function block. This refers to internal programming or logic errors within predefined or user-configured function blocks, impacting specific control functionalities. It can lead to incorrect control outputs or unexpected drive behavior.

FbES

Function Block Stop Error

A function block stop detected error. This means a fault condition was triggered within a function block that is designed to initiate a stop sequence. It indicates a problem with the stop logic or the conditions monitored by the function block.

FCF1

Output Contactor Stuck Closed

Indicates that the output contactor is detected as stuck in the closed position when it should be open. This is a critical safety fault, as power may still be applied to the motor when it should be disconnected, leading to uncontrolled startup or dangerous conditions.

FCF2

Output Contactor Open

Indicates that the output contactor is detected as open when it should be closed. This prevents the drive from supplying power to the motor, resulting in a failure to start or operate. This could be due to a wiring issue, contactor fault, or an active interlock.

HCF

Hardware Configuration Error

A detected error in the hardware configuration, possibly related to 'cards pairing'. This means the drive's internal components or installed option cards are not recognized correctly or are incompatible. This can prevent the drive from operating or utilizing specific features.

HdF

IGBT Desaturation

A hardware detected error, specifically related to IGBT desaturation. This indicates a very high voltage drop across an IGBT, often due to a short circuit in the motor or power wiring, or an internal IGBT failure. This is a critical fault that can lead to immediate hardware damage if not addressed.

IF1

Internal Fault (Unknown Rating)

This is a severe internal hardware fault where the drive cannot identify its own rating. This indicates a critical issue within the drive's core electronics or firmware. If left unresolved, the drive cannot operate safely or correctly and may be permanently damaged.

IF2

Internal Fault (HMI Card)

This internal fault indicates an issue with the Human Machine Interface (HMI) card, such as it not being recognized, being incompatible, or the display being absent. While the drive might still be functional, the lack of a working HMI prevents local monitoring, parameter adjustment, and control, hindering operation and troubleshooting.

IF3

Internal Fault (EEPROM)

This internal fault indicates an issue with the drive's internal EEPROM memory. Similar to EEF, this points to potential data corruption or a hardware failure within the non-volatile memory storing operational parameters. Such a fault can compromise drive stability, lead to incorrect settings, or cause operational failure.

IF4

INTERNAL FAULT (Industrial EEPROM)

An internal fault related to the Industrial EEPROM memory has been detected. This suggests a problem with a critical memory component responsible for storing firmware or essential drive parameters, affecting the drive's core functionality.

ILF

Option Internal Link Interruption

An interruption in the internal communication link for an option card. This means the option card cannot communicate with the main drive controller, rendering its functionality unavailable. This can be due to poor seating, damage, or an incompatible card.

ILF1

Internal Link Fault 1

Indicates a communication interruption between option card 1 and the drive. This fault code is read-only and persists until the drive is disconnected and reconnected to power. It implies that the functionality of option card 1 is unavailable, potentially impacting external communications or I/O.

InF

Internal Fault

This fault indicates an internal malfunction within the drive controller, potentially stemming from environmental electromagnetic interference or an improper connection/disconnection of the local control option while powered. Ignoring this can result in total drive failure and loss of control.

InF1

Unknown Drive Rating

The drive has detected an unknown drive rating. This implies a critical internal inconsistency where the drive cannot identify its own power or voltage characteristics, preventing safe and proper operation. This usually points to an internal hardware issue.

InF2

Unknown or Incompatible Power Board

The drive has detected an unknown or incompatible power board. This means the control section cannot properly interface with the power section, leading to a complete failure to operate. This is a critical internal hardware fault.

InF3

Internal Serial Link Interruption

An interruption in the internal serial link communication. This refers to communication between internal sub-components of the drive (e.g., control board and I/O board). This critical internal fault can lead to unpredictable behavior or complete operational failure.

InF4

Invalid Industrialization Zone

An invalid industrialization zone has been detected. This is a factory-set parameter related to manufacturing origin or regional configuration. Such a fault indicates a deep internal inconsistency or potential tampering, preventing normal operation.

InF6

Unknown or Incompatible Option Board

An unknown or incompatible option board has been detected. This means the drive cannot recognize or properly integrate an installed option card, rendering its functions unavailable and potentially preventing the drive from starting. Check compatibility carefully.

InF9

Current Measurement Circuit Error

A detected error in the internal current measurement circuit. This is critical as the drive relies on accurate current feedback for motor control and protection. Inaccurate measurements can lead to incorrect torque, motor damage, or unstable operation.

InFA

Input Phase Loss Circuit Error

A detected error in the input phase loss circuit. This indicates a problem with the drive's internal sensing of the incoming mains voltage phases, which is crucial for detecting power supply issues. This fault may falsely indicate a phase loss or miss a real one, impacting drive protection.

InFb

Thermal Sensor Error (OC/SC)

A thermal sensor detected error, indicating either an open circuit (OC) or short circuit (SC) in the internal thermal sensor circuit. This prevents the drive from accurately monitoring its internal temperature, risking overheating and damage if left unresolved.

InFE

CPU Detected Fault

A CPU detected fault, indicating an internal error related to RAM, Flash memory, or task execution within the drive's central processing unit. This is a critical internal fault that will prevent the drive from functioning at all and requires immediate attention.

LCF

Line Contactor Error

A detected error with the line contactor (input contactor). This means the drive cannot properly connect to or disconnect from the incoming mains power. This can prevent the drive from starting or safely shutting down, posing a safety and operational risk.

LFF

4-20mA loss

This fault indicates a loss of the 4-20 mA current signal, which is typically used for speed reference, feedback, or other control inputs. This can be due to a broken wire, sensor failure, or a disconnected control device. Without a valid 4-20 mA signal, the drive may operate erratically, stop, or use a fallback value, leading to loss of critical control or incorrect motor speed.

LFF3

AI3 4-20mA Loss

Loss of the 4-20 mA signal on analog input AI3. This input is typically used for speed reference, feedback, or other critical process values. Loss of this signal will cause the drive to lose its reference, potentially leading to a stop or uncontrolled operation.

nOF

No Fault

Indicates that no fault has been detected or is currently stored in the drive's fault list. This is the normal operating state when no errors are present, signifying healthy operation.

ObF

Overbraking

Indicates an overbraking condition. This occurs when the motor is regenerating too much energy back into the drive, exceeding the drive's ability to dissipate it, often due to rapid deceleration or an overhauling load. This can cause the DC bus voltage to rise excessively, potentially damaging the drive.

OCF

Overcurrent

This fault indicates that the current drawn by the motor has exceeded the drive's maximum permissible limit. Common causes include incorrect drive or motor parameters, excessive mechanical load, or a mechanical locking of the driven equipment. An overcurrent condition can quickly damage both the motor windings and the drive's output power stage (IGBTs).

OHF

Drive overheat

This fault signifies that the drive's internal temperature has exceeded its safe operating limits, indicating insufficient cooling, a blocked heatsink, or an excessive load condition. Continuous operation in an overheated state will lead to accelerated wear and potential failure of drive components (e.g., capacitors, power semiconductors). Prolonged overheating can result in complete drive breakdown.

OLC

Process Overload Fault (Torque)

A torque overload detected by the drive. This indicates that the motor has been operating above its rated torque for an extended period, leading to a risk of overheating and damage to both the motor and the driven equipment. It's often related to a mechanical issue or an undersized motor/drive combination.

OLF

Motor Overload

Indicates that the motor's thermal model in the drive has calculated an overload condition, suggesting the motor is operating too hot. This protection mechanism prevents motor winding damage due to excessive current over time. The fault typically clears after the motor has cooled down.

OPF

Motor Phase Loss

This fault signifies a loss of one or more phases in the power supply to the motor from the drive's output. Common causes include loose or broken motor connections, an open output contactor, or incorrect motor sizing/connection resulting in current instability. Operating with a phase loss can lead to motor overheating, reduced efficiency, and eventual failure.

OPF1

1 Output Phase Loss

Detection of a single phase loss on the motor output. This can lead to unbalanced currents, motor vibration, and potential damage to the motor windings if operated in this condition. It is a critical fault indicating a broken connection or internal issue.

OPF2

3 Output Phases Loss

Detection of a complete loss of all three output phases to the motor. This means the drive is unable to supply power to the motor, resulting in no motor rotation. This could be due to a tripped motor contactor, severe wiring issue, or internal drive power stage fault.

OSF

MAINS OVERVOLTAGE

This fault occurs when the incoming line voltage supplied to the drive is too high or the line supply is disturbed by transient spikes. Persistent overvoltage conditions can stress and damage the drive's internal power components, reducing its lifespan. Immediate action is required to protect the drive.

Ot

Overtorque Fault

This fault occurs when the estimated motor torque has continuously exceeded the configured [Overtorque level] (F616) for a duration longer than the set [Ovtorque det time] (F618). This indicates a significant mechanical overload on the motor or the connected machinery. Ignoring this fault can lead to severe damage to the motor windings, mechanical components, or drive internal circuitry due to sustained excessive current draw and heat generation. The drive stops operation upon detection to prevent further damage.

OtFL

PTC Fault (Motor Overheating)

A motor overheating detected error from a PTCL (Positive Temperature Coefficient Logic) standard product. This indicates that the PTC thermistor embedded in the motor windings has exceeded its trip temperature, signaling a critical motor overheating condition. Continuous operation will severely damage the motor.

PHF

INPUT PHASE LOSS

This fault signifies that the drive is incorrectly supplied, has a blown fuse on one phase, or is a three-phase ATV312 unit mistakenly used on a single-phase line supply. It can also be caused by an unbalanced load and typically only operates when the drive is under load. Unresolved input phase loss can lead to drive component stress, rectifier failure, and prevents proper operation.

PtFL

PTCL Detected Error (OC/SC)

A PTCL (Positive Temperature Coefficient Logic) detected error, indicating either an open circuit (OC) or short circuit (SC) in the PTC probe circuit connected to logic input LI6. This prevents the drive from accurately monitoring motor temperature, risking motor overheating.

rAM.E

RAM Anomaly (Remote Display)

This error indicates that the remote display terminal has detected an internal Random Access Memory (RAM) anomaly. This points to a critical internal hardware malfunction within the display terminal's temporary data storage. The terminal's ability to process and display information will be impaired.

rOM.E

ROM Anomaly (Remote Display)

This error indicates that the remote display terminal has detected an internal Read-Only Memory (ROM) anomaly, typically identified by a checksum calculation failure. This points to a critical internal hardware malfunction within the display terminal's firmware storage. The terminal's basic functionality may be compromised.

SAFF

Safety Function Fault

A general safety function fault. This indicates that a critical safety-related event or malfunction has occurred, leading to a safe stop or shutdown. The specific cause requires further investigation of safety registers like SFFE or SAF1 for detailed information. This is a high-priority fault requiring careful investigation.

SCF

Motor short-circuit

A short-circuit or grounding fault has occurred at the drive output, or significant ground leakage current is detected (especially with multiple motors). This indicates a severe electrical fault in the motor or its cabling, risking immediate damage to the drive and motor.

SCF1

Motor Short Circuit (Hard Detection)

A hard detection of a motor short circuit. This is a severe fault indicating a direct short circuit between motor phases or from a phase to ground. This can cause immediate and significant damage to the drive's power stage and the motor. This fault can be manually cleared if the 'Reset restricted fault configuration' (HrFC) parameter is set to 'Yes'.

SCF3

Direct Ground Short-Circuit (Hard Detection)

A hard detection of a direct ground short-circuit. This indicates a severe fault where a motor phase or internal component is directly shorted to earth ground. This condition poses a significant safety hazard and can cause severe damage to the drive. This fault can be manually cleared if the 'Reset restricted fault configuration' (HrFC) parameter is set to 'Yes'.

SCF4

IGBT Short-Circuit (Hard Detection)

A hard detection of an IGBT short-circuit. This indicates a severe internal failure of the Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) within the drive's power stage. This is a critical hardware fault that can cause catastrophic damage to the drive and is usually not field-repairable.

SCF5

Load Short-Circuit (Igon Load Sequence)

A hard detection of a load short-circuit during the Igon load sequence. This implies a short circuit condition was detected at the motor output during the drive's internal initialization or measurement sequence, indicating a problem with the motor or its wiring before full operation.

SLF

Modbus Fault

This fault signals an interruption in communication on the Modbus bus, preventing the drive from exchanging data with a Modbus master or remote display terminal. Causes often include physical bus issues or a disconnected remote display terminal when HMI command is enabled. This results in a loss of external control, monitoring, or parameter access.

SLF1

Modbus Local Serial Communication Interruption

An interruption in Modbus local serial communication. This means the drive has lost communication with its Modbus master or other devices on the local serial network, preventing remote control, monitoring, or data exchange. This can lead to a loss of process control.

SLF2

PC Software Communication Interruption

An interruption in communication with PC Software. This means the drive has lost its connection to a PC running configuration or monitoring software, preventing diagnostics, parameter changes, or firmware updates. This is typically a temporary issue during commissioning or maintenance.

SLF3

Remote Terminal Communication Interruption

An interruption in communication with the remote terminal (HMI). This means the drive has lost its connection to its human-machine interface, preventing local control, status monitoring, or parameter adjustments from the HMI. The drive may still operate if controlled externally.

SOF

Overspeed

An overspeed condition detected. This means the motor speed has exceeded a predefined maximum limit. This can be caused by an overhauling load, incorrect speed reference, or a feedback error. Overspeed can lead to mechanical damage, safety hazards, and motor/drive failure.

SPF

Speed Feedback Loss

A loss of speed feedback has been detected. This means the drive is no longer receiving valid speed information from its encoder or resolver. This is critical for closed-loop speed control and can lead to unstable motor operation or a controlled shutdown. If left unresolved, accurate speed control is impossible.

SSF

Torque/Current Limitation Fault

A torque/current limitation detected fault. This indicates that the drive's output torque or current has hit its predefined limit, typically due to an overload condition or an attempt to accelerate too quickly. While a protection feature, persistent limitation can indicate an undersized system or mechanical issue.

tJF

IGBT Overheating

IGBT overheating detected. This means the temperature of the Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors in the drive's power stage has exceeded safe limits. This is often caused by heavy loads, high ambient temperatures, or cooling system failure. Prolonged overheating can lead to permanent damage to the IGBTs.

tnF

Auto Tuning Fault

This fault indicates that the drive's auto-tuning process was unsuccessful, preventing the drive from accurately measuring and optimizing motor parameters. This can occur if motor parameters are incorrectly entered, the process is interrupted, or there are issues with the motor wiring. Without successful auto-tuning, the drive's motor control performance may be suboptimal or lead to operational issues.

UC

Underload Condition

This fault occurs when the motor loading level drops below the configured [Underload level] (F611) for a period longer than the [Underload detection time] (F612), and parameter F610 is set to 1 (Fault). It indicates that the motor or driven equipment is not adequately loaded, potentially due to a mechanical issue, disconnection, or incorrect parameter settings. If left unresolved, prolonged underload can cause instability, motor overheating due to inefficient operation, or damage to the motor and driven equipment.

ULF

Process Underload Fault (Torque)

A torque underload detected fault. This indicates that the motor is operating with significantly less load than expected, potentially pointing to a mechanical failure (e.g., broken belt, pump cavitation) or a material flow issue. While not immediately damaging, it signals an abnormal process condition.

USF

UNDERVOLTAGE

This fault indicates an insufficient incoming line supply voltage, a transient voltage dip, or a potential issue with the drive's internal precharge resistor. If the voltage drops below the drive's operational threshold, it will be unable to operate reliably or at all, causing unexpected shutdowns and potential component stress. Sustained undervoltage can prevent motor start-up or lead to erratic performance.