Mains overvoltage

What does OUE mean?

This fault occurs when the incoming mains voltage exceeds the permissible operating range for the drive. By default, this critical condition triggers a full TRIP, inhibiting all ignition pulses and resetting the Ready signal to protect the drive's power electronics from damage due to overvoltage. It requires manual reset after the voltage issue is resolved.

• Utility grid voltage surge or transient overvoltage events (e.g., lightning, grid switching) affecting the facility.
• Poorly regulated local power generation system or incorrectly tapped transformer providing excessive voltage.
• Incorrectly set overvoltage trip threshold parameter (e.g., P0-13) in the drive, causing premature tripping.
• Capacitive loads on the same mains supply causing voltage rise (Ferranti effect in long transmission lines).
• Sudden removal of heavy inductive loads causing a voltage spike on the mains supply.

Click steps to track your progress.

1. 1

   Measure the actual incoming mains voltage (line-to-line) at the drive's input terminals (L1, L2, L3) using a true RMS multimeter; compare to the drive's rated voltage (e.g., 400V).

2. 2

   Check the drive's overvoltage trip threshold parameter (e.g., P0-13) and adjust if it is set too low (e.g., typically 480V for a 400V system).

3. 3

   Monitor the mains voltage over time using a power quality analyzer to detect transient surges or prolonged high voltage conditions.

4. 4

   Verify the tap settings on any upstream step-down transformer; adjust if it is configured for a lower input voltage than currently supplied.

5. 5

   Check for external surge protection devices on the incoming mains supply; inspect for proper functioning or damage.

6. 6

   Evaluate if large inductive loads are being abruptly disconnected on the same bus, causing voltage transients.