Drives Service & Support > PowerFlex 700 > Fault Finder

Fault Number : 8

Fault Display : Heatsink OvrTemp

Fault Name : Heatsink OverTemperature

Fault Type : 1 - Auto-Reset Run

Fault Description : Heatsink temperature exceeded 100% of [Drive Temp].

Corrective Action : The drive has reached a temperature outside of its acceptable operating temperature. This level is 100' C (212'F). It can also trip if the drive is extremely cold. This lower level can be anywhere below freezing point. This is measured by a thermistor in the heatsink itself.

Possible causes are a broken or pinched wire to the thermistor, or the thermistor itself. An overheating condition could be caused by a failed heatsink fan. If accessible, check the top of the drive for airflow coming out of the top of the heatsink. This is a quick verification of the fans operation. If airflow is low, another possible cause of overheating may be an obstructed heatsink. Dirt, dust, or any other contaminants can be sucked up by the fan, and stick to the heatsink or fan blades. A blast of air from a compressor can typically clear any blockage or buildup. In certain environments, it may be required to manually clean the fan and heatsink.

Check the ambient temperature the drive is subjected to. Higher ambient temperatures around the drive paired with a heavy load on the drive may cause ambient temperatures to skyrocket. This is more of a possibility if the drive is enclosed in a cabinet. In this case, an air conditioner or better ventilation may be required.

The last possibility here is that the temperature is actually too LOW! There have been instances in very cold temperatures (below 0°C or 32°F), the drives have tripped with this fault due to the thermistor being out of range. If the ambient temperature of and around the drive is below the freezing mark, it is recommended to warm the drive up before running.