Applicable Systems
MNS-MCC
Symptoms
The motor contactor has failed to close when commanded. The motor does not start and the control circuit shows 0V at the contactor coil terminals.
Possible Causes
- Control circuit fuse blown due to a short or overload in the control wiring
- Contactor coil open-circuited from overheating or age
- Control relay or PLC output failed to energize the contactor coil
- Emergency stop circuit open, breaking the control power to the contactor
Troubleshooting Steps
- Step 1: Check the control circuit fuse for continuity
Replace if blown; investigate for shorts before re-energizing - Step 2: Measure the voltage at the contactor coil terminals when a start command is given
If voltage is present but the contactor does not close, the coil is faulty - Step 3: Measure the coil resistance with power off and compare to the nameplate value
Replace the contactor if the coil is open or shorted - Step 4: Trace the control circuit from the PLC output through all interlocks to find the open point
Check emergency stops, overload auxiliary contacts, and interlock relays
How to Reset
Reset: After replacing the fuse, coil, or fixing the control circuit, the contactor closes normally on the next start command.
Common Replacement Parts
- Contactor coil: 24V DC or 120V AC, match to existing (Verify coil voltage before ordering)
- Control circuit fuse: 2A or 5A, time-delay type (Match to existing fuse class)
- Control relay: Ice-cube or plug-in type, 8-pin (Match socket and coil voltage)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How do I test a contactor coil?
With power off, measure resistance across the coil terminals. A reading of infinity means the coil is open. Compare to the nameplate resistance.
- Q: What causes a control fuse to blow?
Shorted wiring, failed coil, or jammed contactor mechanism. Inspect for wire chafing and terminal shorts before replacing the fuse.
- Q: Can I replace just the coil?
On some contactors, yes. Check if the manufacturer offers a coil-only spare part. If not, replace the entire contactor.
Source: OEM Technical Manual
Category: Electrical