solid state overload trips in spring time 2

[krbernier]

i have an overload for a well pump that acts up in the spring. its a stainless steel enclosure outside. there are three motor starters in the cabinet but only one acts up. It is set at 13.5 amps and the motor draws about 12.4 amps.Last spring i replaced the overload relay thinking condensation was causing problems with the circuitry in the overload. still have the problem. once the weather warms up a bit the problem goes away. any thoughts?

 

[waross]

You may have a high water level that is causing a lower dynamic head. A lower dynamic head will increase the load on a centrifugal pump. Try throttling the discharge valve until the motor draw drops a few amps.

Bill
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"Why not the best?"
Jimmy Carter

 

[krbernier]

i think you hit the nail on the head there. that would explain why it only happens in the spring. im going to go check the water level and take an amp draw then throttle the discharge. then go back in 60 days and check the level again and take an unthrottled amp draw. Thank you!

 

[krbernier]

sometimes its hard to look at something from a different angle. i was just looking at the electrical side of it. hopefully this will be a lesson i will remember. dont get stuck just focusing on the electrical!

 

[waross]

Glad to be of help. Let us know the outcome.

Bill
--------------------
"Why not the best?"
Jimmy Carter

 

[itsmoked]

I would concur with Bills theory too.

Keith Cress
kcress -

http://www.flaminsystems.com