Phase U to Grnd

What does 38 mean?

A phase-to-ground fault has been detected between the drive and the motor on output phase U. This indicates insulation breakdown or a direct short from output phase U to earth. This condition poses a significant risk of electrical shock and can cause severe damage to both the drive and the motor if not quickly identified and resolved.

• Insulation breakdown of motor cable conductor for phase U to conduit or earth ground.
• Motor winding insulation failure for phase U to motor frame (ground).
• Moisture, contamination, or mechanical damage to the motor cable or motor causing a short.
• Improperly terminated motor cable connections at the drive's 'U' terminal or motor's 'U1' terminal.
• Ground fault detection circuit malfunction within the drive (less common).

Click steps to track your progress.

1. 1

   1. Disconnect the motor cable at the drive output terminals (U, V, W) and at the motor junction box.

2. 2

   2. Perform a megohmmeter test (e.g., 1000VDC) on the motor cable from phase U to earth ground, and also from phase V and W to earth ground for comparison.

3. 3

   3. Perform a megohmmeter test (e.g., 1000VDC) on the motor windings from phase U to the motor frame (ground), and also for phases V and W.

4. 4

   4. Inspect the motor cable for any visible damage, chafing, or signs of overheating along its entire length.

5. 5

   5. Inspect the motor terminal box for moisture, contamination, or loose connections (e.g., between 'U1' and motor frame).

6. 6

   6. If the fault persists after verifying no external ground fault, the drive's output stage may be damaged and require replacement.