Applicable Systems
i500
Symptoms
Motor overload (I2t). The motor thermal model has calculated that the I2t integral has exceeded the thermallimit. The drive stops to protect the motor.
Possible Causes
- Mechanical overload exceeding motor rated torque
- Motor undersized for the application
- Insufficient motor cooling
- Excessive duty cycle with insufficient rest time
- Motor efficiency degraded: bearing wear or winding degradation
Troubleshooting Steps
- Step 1: Check the equipment status and fault indicators to confirm the active fault code
Fault indicator or HMI displays code OC5 as active - Step 2: Verify all electrical connections, wiring harnesses, and connector seating
All connections secure, no corrosion, loose pins, or damaged wires - Step 3: Check motor cable connections at drive output terminals for correct phase sequence and tightness
Cables securely connected, phase sequence correct, no loose terminals - Step 4: Measure motor winding insulation resistance with a megger (500V DC minimum)
Insulation resistance above minimum value (typically > 1 Megaohm) - Step 5: Verify drive parameter settings match motor nameplate data (current, voltage, power, RPM)
All motor nameplate parameters correctly entered in drive - Step 6: Inspect motor for mechanical overload, bearing seizure, or driven equipment jam
Motor rotates freely, no mechanical binding or excessive load - Step 7: Reset the fault after fixing the root cause: clear the fault via HMI or power-cycle
Fault clears and drive resumes normal operation without recurrence
How to Reset
To reset: 1) Identify and fix the root cause described in the fault symptoms. 2) Press RESET on the HMI or controller, or power-cycle the equipment. 3) If the fault recurs, contact manufacturer service. Caution: Document the fault code and context before resetting.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What does fault code OC5 mean on the Lenze i500?
Fault OC5 on the Lenze i500 indicates: Motor overload (I2t). The motor thermal model has calculated that the I2t integral has exceeded the thermal limit. The drive stops to protect the motor. Refer to the equipment manual and manufacturer support for specific troubleshooting steps.
- Q: Can I continue operating the equipment with fault OC5 active?
No. The equipment has detected a fault condition and has taken protective action (typically stopping or derating). Continuing to operate without fixing the root cause may cause further damage. Always investigate and fix the fault before resuming operation.
Source: Lenze i500 Frequency Inverter Operating Instructions, Lenze Documentation
Category: PLC & VFD