A simplified technique for detecting mechanical faults using stator current in small induction motors

This paper shows that mechanical faults in small induction machines can be detected with adequate sensitivity by merely monitoring the RMS value of the stator current over a certain frequency range. Furthermore, a simple technique for mechanical fault detection using stator current is presented for the case wherein spectral monitoring is necessary. Experimental results for different types of mechanical faults, namely, rotor unbalances and shaft misalignments, are shown.