Motor Drive Systems and Maintenance 347

Motor Drive Systems and Maintenance describes the major components found in motor drive systems and best practices for system maintenance. A motor drive system typically consists of a variable frequency drive and a three-phase AC motor used to power a driven unit. The motor connects to the driven unit through a drive train. Because there are many mechanical and electrical components, motor drive systems are prone to various faults that interrupt operation and lead to downtime. Following a proactive maintenance approach can be a very effective method of preventing and dealing with system faults. Motor drive systems are used for many industrial applications. When operating motor drive systems, understanding how they work and how they can potentially fail is essential. In addition, understanding motor drive maintenance prepares users to operate machinery effectively, reducing downtime and manufacturing costs.