OEM tracedcritical severityFault

Main Motor Overload

The main motor overload relay has tripped or the controller has detected the corresponding overload condition.

What it means

The main motor overload relay has tripped or the controller has detected the corresponding overload condition.

The compressor is protected from continued operation while the motor overload condition exists.

Likely causes

  • Main motor overload relay tripped
  • Incorrect compressor configuration or pressure setting
  • Low line voltage
  • Underlying motor, starter, electrical or mechanical load problem

Operator-safe first checks

  • Do not keep resetting the overload after repeated trips.
  • Record load pressure, other alarms and whether the trip occurred at start or while loaded.
  • Escalate electrical checks to qualified personnel.

Trained maintenance / service checks

  • After the overload element cools, determine why it tripped before resetting.
  • Verify compressor configuration and load-pressure setting.
  • Measure line voltage and diagnose starter, motor and mechanical load as required.

Can the compressor keep running?

No. A motor overload is a protective trip; repeated resets can damage equipment or create an electrical hazard.

Source confidence

OEM VERIFIED

Sullair directs service personnel to the overload relay, compressor configuration, load pressure and line voltage.

Source: Sullair STS Controller User Manual, part 02250241-178 R01. Referenced manual page(s): 33.

Open the Sullair manual

Safety: Industrial compressors can contain hazardous electrical energy, automatic-restart functions, rotating machinery, hot fluid and stored pneumatic pressure. Do not open electrical cabinets, pressure vessels or pressurized connections unless you are trained, authorized and following lockout/tagout and depressurization procedures.