Toward embedded broken rotor bars detection in induction machines

Abstract

Low-complexity broken rotor bar detection methods amenable to an embedded implementation are dealt in this paper. A novel method based on zoom-FFT has been developed, and compared to an existing method based on zero-crossing time (ZCT) processing using real data from faulty and healthy motors. Numerical tests show that both methods can reliably detect broken rotor bars. ZCT processing entails better performance than zoom-FFT for low load and low current, but zoom-FFT is easier to tune, thus being preferable for embedded systems such as motor controllers, soft starters and drives that have to operate with a vast variety of motors.