ALARM FOR REMOTE MOTOR STARTING

[vanskat]

I have the task of installing an alarm system for pumps (motors) that are started remotely at our plant (Safety Issue). We use the Honeywell TDC system. My initial approach would be to take advantage of the TDC and the motor control circuit by installing some sort of delay. Simple enough.

Any suggestions?

 

[moeszu]

It is not clear what you are trying to alarm. Typically motor starters have a motor overcurrent device that is monitored for a motor alarm. Also a failure to start (motor starter does not provide a run status within a given time frame which results in an alarm), but can also be motor temperature, or seal failure in the case on submersible pumps. Given any alarm, it is fairly common to have a time delay before "sounding" the alarm to prove the alarm is not related to a startup condition.

 

[vanskat]

It's a matter of warning personnel in the vicinity of the motor that it is about to start. I see your point about the time delay before sounding the alarm which is something that I'll consider in my design. Thank you for your response.

 

[visitor]

Why not use an auxiliary contact from the motor starter. Once your Honeywell output pulls in the starter the auxiliary contact should change state and can provide control of the alarming device. If the motor trips the aux contact will also change state. I have seen the aux contacts in many cases be utilized in feedback to operators for motor status.

 

[BJC]

The TDC 2000 system I worked with would do that quite well. Take and output to a locally mounted relay and flashing light. The permissive logic to start the motor includes a 10 sec ( or as programed ) delay before the motor starts. You have to install the relay and light in the immediate vicinity of the motor. You will probably need a source of 120 v ac to power the light and relay.