Fault Diagnosis and Troubleshooting Methods for Electric Actuators

Check the Power Supply and the Control Circuit

First, check whether the power supply line is disconnected or the control circuit is faulty. If there is a problem with the power supply or control circuit, the actuator may fail to operate normally.

Check the Load Torque and Actuator Operation

Check whether the load torque is normal, if the load torque is normal but the actuator operates abnormally, the problem may be caused by malfunction. The related steps need to be checked, for example, if the actuator limit switches are damaged or whether bolts in the mechanical transmission system are loose or detached.

Check the Motor and the Capacitor

If actuator motor or the capacitor is damaged, the electric actuator may fail to operate normally. Therefore, it is important to check  whether the motor and capacitor are functioning properly.

Check the Sensor and the Actuator Components

If actuators cannot operate normally or stop at the correct position or provide sufficient power, the sensors should be checked to determine whether they are faulty or improperly installed. Also it is need to be checked whether the actuator bearings, gear system and other components are excessively worn or damaged.

Check the Circuit Board

If the on/off indicator on circuit board is abnormal, it may be the faulty of circuit board or a loose connection between the potentiometer’s centre shaft and the drive rod. User should replace the circuit board or secure the connection between the potentiometer shaft and mechanical connected rod.

Check the Water Accumulation in the Actuator

If  water has entered the actuator, it may wet the circuit board and cause a short circuit and damage the motor. User should clear the accumulated water and seal the actuator properly to prevent further water ingress.

Check the actuator vibration situation

If actuator vibrates excessively, it may cause some components to loosen and ground fault in the electrical circuit. Therefore, user needs to reinforce and modify the actuator mounting base to prevent contact with the source of vibration.