danfoss vfd fault codes pdf
Danfoss VFD Fault Codes PDF: A Comprehensive Guide
Navigating Danfoss Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) fault codes requires readily accessible documentation, often in PDF format, to swiftly diagnose and resolve operational issues.
These guides detail alarms like Live Zero Error (Alarm 2), No Motor (Alarm 3), and Internal Fault (Alarm 38), alongside troubleshooting steps.
Understanding these codes, including power supply, motor, and control circuit related faults, is crucial for maintaining system uptime and preventing costly downtime.
PDF resources provide detailed error logs (Parameter 15-30) and drive identification (Parameter 15-4) information, aiding in efficient problem-solving.
Danfoss Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), like the VLT Micro Drive FC 51 and FC301/302 series, are integral to modern industrial automation, controlling motor speed and optimizing energy consumption. However, like any sophisticated electronic system, they can encounter faults. These faults manifest as alarm or warning codes, providing crucial diagnostic information. Understanding these codes is paramount for efficient maintenance and minimizing downtime.
Fault codes aren’t simply error messages; they are a structured language the drive uses to pinpoint the source of a problem. A warning often precedes an alarm, offering an early indication of a potential issue. Common categories include power supply faults (mains phase loss, DC over/undervoltage), motor-related issues (overload, thermistor trips), and control circuit errors (control word timeout). Accessing comprehensive documentation, often in PDF format, is essential for interpreting these codes correctly and implementing effective troubleshooting procedures. These PDFs detail specific alarms like Alarm 2 (Live Zero Error), Alarm 3 (No Motor), and Alarm 38 (Internal Fault).
Understanding the Importance of Fault Codes
Ignoring Danfoss VFD fault codes can lead to escalating problems, resulting in prolonged downtime, costly repairs, and potential damage to connected equipment. These codes act as an early warning system, signaling deviations from normal operating parameters. Promptly addressing these signals prevents minor issues from becoming major failures.
Effective troubleshooting hinges on accurately interpreting fault codes. For example, an Earth Fault (Alarm 14/45) might indicate a wiring issue or insulation breakdown, while an Overcurrent error suggests a motor overload or drive malfunction. Utilizing the fault log (Parameter 15-30) allows for historical analysis, identifying recurring problems and potential root causes. Furthermore, understanding the difference between warnings and alarms is crucial; a warning suggests a developing issue, while an alarm indicates an active fault requiring immediate attention. Accessing detailed PDF documentation provides the necessary context for accurate diagnosis and resolution, ensuring optimal VFD performance and longevity.
Accessing Danfoss VFD Fault Code Information (PDFs)
Locating comprehensive Danfoss VFD fault code information often begins with accessing official documentation in PDF format. The Danfoss website provides a wealth of manuals for various VFD series, including the VLT Micro Drive FC 51 and FC301/302 models. These manuals detail specific alarm and warning codes, their causes, and recommended troubleshooting procedures.
Beyond the official website, numerous online forums and support communities dedicated to industrial automation offer valuable resources. These platforms often host user-shared PDFs, troubleshooting guides, and discussions regarding common fault codes. Searching for specific error codes, like “Alarm 38 Danfoss PDF,” can quickly yield relevant results. Remember to verify the source and date of any downloaded PDF to ensure accuracy. Utilizing these resources, alongside the drive’s parameter settings and fault log (Parameter 15-30), empowers technicians to efficiently diagnose and resolve VFD issues.

Common Danfoss VFD Fault Code Categories
Danfoss VFD fault codes are broadly categorized into power supply issues, motor-related problems, and control circuit malfunctions, aiding systematic troubleshooting efforts.
Power Supply Related Fault Codes
Power supply faults within a Danfoss VFD often indicate issues with the incoming voltage or DC bus stability. Common alarms include Alarm 7: DC Overvoltage, signaling excessive voltage on the DC link, potentially caused by regenerative braking or a faulty rectifier. Conversely, Alarm 8: DC Undervoltage points to insufficient DC bus voltage, possibly due to mains phase loss (Alarm 4) or a failing capacitor.
These faults can also stem from issues like mains phase imbalance or incorrect input voltage settings. Diagnosing these requires careful measurement of input voltages and DC bus voltage levels, alongside checking rectifier and capacitor health. Overcurrent conditions, indicated by specific error codes, may also relate to power supply problems. Addressing these faults often involves verifying proper power supply connections, inspecting fuses, and ensuring the VFD is configured for the correct input voltage.
Motor Related Fault Codes
Motor-related fault codes in a Danfoss VFD typically signify problems with the motor itself, the motor cabling, or the drive’s motor control circuitry. A frequent issue is Alarm 3: No Motor, indicating the drive cannot detect the motor’s impedance or receives no feedback from the motor. This could be due to open windings, disconnected motor cables, or a faulty motor encoder.
Overload conditions, often flagged by specific error codes, suggest the motor is drawing excessive current, potentially due to mechanical load issues or motor damage. Motor thermistor faults indicate overheating, requiring investigation of the motor’s thermal protection and cooling system. Accurate motor parameters within the VFD (like Inom – nominal current) are crucial; incorrect settings can trigger false alarms. Thoroughly checking motor connections, insulation resistance, and motor nameplate data is essential for effective troubleshooting.
Control Circuit Fault Codes
Control circuit faults within a Danfoss VFD often relate to communication issues, signal integrity, or internal control board malfunctions. A common error is the Control Word Timeout (indicated by a specific code), signifying the drive isn’t receiving valid commands from the controller or PLC. This necessitates checking wiring, communication protocols (like Modbus), and controller program logic.
Issues with digital or analog inputs can also trigger faults, requiring verification of signal levels and wiring connections. Internal control board failures, though less frequent, are indicated by specific alarm codes and usually necessitate professional repair or replacement. The drive’s status words (02 Preset reference MSB, 03 DC brake) provide valuable diagnostic information. Proper grounding and shielding of control cables are vital to minimize noise interference and prevent false alarms. Careful examination of parameter settings related to control inputs is also crucial.

Specific Danfoss VFD Fault Codes & Troubleshooting
Decoding specific Danfoss VFD alarms—like Alarm 2 (Live Zero Error), Alarm 3 (No Motor), or Alarm 38 (Internal Fault)—requires referencing detailed PDF guides for targeted solutions.
Alarm 2: Live Zero Error
Alarm 2, the “Live Zero Error” on Danfoss VFDs, signifies an issue where the motor control circuit detects voltage on the motor terminals while the drive is attempting to maintain a zero-speed condition. This typically occurs during startup, stopping, or when the drive is commanded to zero frequency. Several factors can trigger this fault, including incorrect motor parameters, short circuits within the motor cable, or grounding issues.

Troubleshooting involves verifying correct motor nameplate data programmed into the drive, meticulously inspecting the motor cable for damage or shorts to ground, and ensuring proper grounding connections. Checking the insulation resistance of the motor windings is also crucial. Furthermore, confirm that the braking resistor is functioning correctly, as a faulty resistor can contribute to this error. Consulting the Danfoss VFD manual (PDF) provides detailed diagnostic steps and parameter adjustments to resolve this common alarm.
Alarm 3: No Motor
Danfoss VFD Alarm 3, indicating “No Motor,” signals a failure in establishing a connection or detecting the motor during startup. This commonly arises from issues within the motor circuit, preventing the drive from properly controlling the motor’s speed and torque. Potential causes include open circuits in the motor cables, disconnected motor connections, or a tripped motor overload protection device.
Troubleshooting begins with a thorough inspection of the motor cables and connections, ensuring secure and intact wiring. Verify the motor overload relay hasn’t tripped and reset it if necessary. Checking the motor windings for open circuits using a multimeter is also essential. Reviewing the drive’s parameter settings related to motor voltage and frequency is crucial. Detailed diagnostic procedures and parameter adjustments are available within the official Danfoss VFD manuals (PDF), offering a comprehensive guide to resolving this prevalent alarm.
Alarm 7: DC Overvoltage
Danfoss VFD Alarm 7, signifying “DC Overvoltage,” indicates an excessive voltage level on the DC bus within the drive. This typically occurs during regenerative braking, where the motor acts as a generator, feeding energy back into the DC bus. If this energy isn’t dissipated quickly enough, the voltage rises to a fault level. Common causes include prolonged braking without a sufficient load, a faulty braking resistor, or issues with the rectifier section of the drive.
Troubleshooting involves verifying the braking resistor’s functionality and ensuring it’s appropriately sized for the application. Inspect the rectifier diodes for any signs of damage or failure. Reviewing the drive’s parameters related to braking and regeneration is also vital. Detailed diagnostic steps and parameter adjustments are outlined in the official Danfoss VFD manuals (PDF), providing a structured approach to resolving this potentially damaging alarm.
Alarm 8: DC Undervoltage
Danfoss VFD Alarm 8 signals a “DC Undervoltage” condition, meaning the voltage on the drive’s DC bus has dropped below a safe operating threshold. This can manifest during motor startup, particularly with high inertia loads, or when the incoming supply voltage is insufficient. Potential causes include a weak or failing rectifier, inadequate incoming voltage, or a significant inrush current demand exceeding the supply’s capacity.
Troubleshooting begins with verifying the incoming AC supply voltage and ensuring it meets the drive’s specifications. Inspect the rectifier diodes for any signs of damage or malfunction. Reviewing the drive’s parameters related to inrush current limiting and minimum voltage levels is also crucial. Detailed diagnostic procedures and parameter adjustments are comprehensively documented in the official Danfoss VFD manuals (PDFs), offering a systematic approach to resolving this alarm and preventing potential motor stalling.
Alarm 14/45: Earth Fault
Danfoss VFD Alarms 14 and 45 both indicate an “Earth Fault” condition, signifying an unintended electrical connection between an energized circuit and ground. This is a critical safety concern and can damage the drive or connected equipment. Often, these alarms are triggered by insulation breakdown in the motor cables, or within the drive itself, leading to leakage current.
Troubleshooting involves a thorough inspection of all wiring, ensuring proper grounding and insulation integrity. The Danfoss VFD manuals (PDFs) detail procedures for isolating the fault, including disconnecting the motor and performing insulation resistance tests (megger testing). False tripping due to offsets can occur, requiring careful analysis. Addressing this alarm promptly is vital, as continued operation with an earth fault poses significant electrical hazards and can lead to catastrophic failure. Detailed documentation provides guidance on safe disconnection and testing procedures.
Alarm 38: Internal Fault
Danfoss VFD Alarm 38 signifies a severe “Internal Fault” within the drive, indicating a hardware or software malfunction that the drive cannot self-correct. This is a broad alarm, requiring a systematic approach to diagnosis, as the root cause can vary significantly. The PDF documentation emphasizes that this alarm often necessitates professional assistance.
Troubleshooting typically begins with reviewing the drive’s fault log (Parameter 15-30) for more specific error codes that preceded Alarm 38. However, often the information is limited. Common causes include power supply issues, inverter stage failures, or control board malfunctions. Crucially, the manuals advise against attempting repairs without proper training and equipment. Contacting Danfoss technical support or an authorized service center is strongly recommended to avoid further damage or safety risks. A blocked fault condition can also trigger this alarm.

Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques
Effective diagnosis utilizes the fault log (Parameter 15-30), drive identification, and analysis of control word timeout errors, as detailed in Danfoss VFD PDF guides.
Using the Fault Log (Parameter 15-30)
The Danfoss VFD fault log, accessed via Parameter 15-30, is an invaluable tool for pinpointing the root cause of drive malfunctions. This feature meticulously records a history of error codes, timestamps, and associated data, providing a chronological sequence of events leading up to a fault.
Analyzing this log allows technicians to identify recurring issues, intermittent problems, and the precise conditions under which faults occur. The error code itself offers a starting point, but examining the preceding events within the log can reveal critical context. For instance, a DC overvoltage (Alarm 7) might be preceded by a mains phase loss (Alarm 4), indicating a power supply issue.
PDF documentation details how to navigate and interpret the fault log effectively, including understanding the different data fields and utilizing filtering options. Regularly reviewing the fault log, even during periods of normal operation, can proactively identify potential problems before they escalate into full-blown failures, enhancing overall system reliability and minimizing downtime.
Drive Identification and Parameter Settings
Accurate drive identification is paramount when troubleshooting Danfoss VFDs, as parameter settings vary significantly between models (like the VLT Micro Drive FC 51). The identification process, often utilizing Parameter 15-4, reveals crucial details such as the drive type, software version, and motor nameplate data.
Incorrect parameter settings – particularly motor parameters like nominal current (Inom) – can trigger false alarms, such as “Motor Overload” or “Motor Thermistor Over Temp.” PDF manuals provide detailed guidance on configuring these parameters correctly, ensuring optimal drive performance and protection.
Furthermore, verifying that the control card is functioning correctly and that the drive has been properly configured for the specific application is essential. Mismatched settings can lead to unexpected behavior and fault conditions. Consulting the relevant PDF documentation and cross-referencing with the motor nameplate data are vital steps in the troubleshooting process.
Analyzing Control Word Timeout Errors
Control word timeout errors (often indicated by code 00000010 in the fault log – Parameter 15-30) signify a communication breakdown between the VFD and its controlling device, like a PLC or operator panel. This means the drive isn’t receiving regular commands, halting operation as a safety measure.
Troubleshooting involves verifying the physical communication link – checking wiring connections for the control signals and ensuring proper termination. PDF documentation details the expected signal levels and communication protocols. Investigate the controlling device to confirm it’s actively sending control words at the correct frequency.
Additionally, examine the drive’s parameter settings related to communication timeout duration. A too-short timeout can trigger false alarms. Reviewing the VFD’s PDF manual will provide specific guidance on adjusting these parameters. Incorrect settings or intermittent communication issues are common causes of these errors.

Safety Precautions When Troubleshooting
Prioritize electrical safety – disconnect power before inspection! Follow motor safety procedures, and consult Danfoss VFD PDF manuals for hazard warnings and safe troubleshooting practices.
Electrical Safety Considerations
Troubleshooting Danfoss VFDs involves potentially hazardous voltages; therefore, strict adherence to electrical safety protocols is paramount. Always disconnect the main power supply to the drive before attempting any inspection, maintenance, or component replacement. Verify complete power isolation using a calibrated multimeter to confirm zero voltage at relevant test points.
Capacitors within the VFD can retain a dangerous charge even after power is removed. Discharge these capacitors following the manufacturer’s recommended procedure, typically involving a resistor discharge tool. Never short-circuit capacitors, as this can cause explosive failure.
Be aware of potential earth fault conditions, as indicated by alarms 14/45, and ensure proper grounding of the VFD and connected equipment. Utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated gloves and safety glasses. Consult the Danfoss VFD PDF manuals for specific safety guidelines related to the model being serviced, as procedures may vary.

Motor Safety Procedures
When troubleshooting motor-related faults with a Danfoss VFD, prioritize safety around the connected motor. Before any work, disconnect and lock out the main power supply to both the VFD and the motor itself, ensuring a complete energy isolation. Verify the motor shaft is mechanically locked to prevent accidental rotation during testing or inspection.
Be mindful of residual magnetism in the motor, which can generate voltage even when de-energized. Use caution when handling motor leads and connections. Inspect motor cabling for damage or wear, addressing any issues before restoring power.

Refer to the Danfoss VFD PDF documentation for motor parameter settings and ensure they align with the motor’s nameplate data. Incorrect settings can lead to overheating or damage. Always follow established motor safety procedures, including proper grounding and insulation testing, to prevent electrical hazards and ensure reliable operation.

Resources and Documentation
Access official Danfoss VFD manuals in PDF format for comprehensive fault code details; explore online forums for community support and troubleshooting tips; and contact Danfoss directly.
Official Danfoss VFD Manuals (PDF Links)
Danfoss provides extensive documentation for its VFDs, readily available as downloadable PDF manuals. These manuals are the primary resource for understanding specific fault codes and their corresponding troubleshooting procedures. For the VLT Micro Drive FC 51 series, detailed guides outline error messages like “AAD: small Inom” or “AAD: motor too powerful,” offering insights into motor parameter mismatches.
Accessing these PDFs is crucial for diagnosing issues like earth faults (Alarm 14/45) or internal failures (Alarm 38), which often require contacting Danfoss support. The manuals detail parameter settings, including the Fault Log (15-30) for error code analysis and Drive Identification (15-4). They also cover safety precautions and procedures for rectifying common errors such as overcurrent, overvoltage, and communication problems. Direct links to these resources can be found on the official Danfoss website, categorized by drive series and model number, ensuring users have the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Online Forums and Support Communities
Beyond official documentation, a wealth of knowledge regarding Danfoss VFD fault codes resides within online forums and support communities. These platforms offer a collaborative environment where technicians and engineers share experiences, troubleshooting tips, and interpretations of error messages. Discussions frequently cover common alarms like Alarm 2 (Live Zero Error) and Alarm 7 (DC Overvoltage), providing practical solutions often not detailed in manuals.
These communities are invaluable for deciphering complex issues, particularly those related to parameter settings and control word timeout errors. Users often post specific scenarios and receive guidance from experienced professionals. Searching these forums using fault code numbers (e.g., “Alarm 38 Danfoss”) quickly yields relevant threads and potential fixes. While information should be verified, these resources supplement official PDFs, offering real-world insights and accelerating the troubleshooting process for Danfoss VFDs.
Contacting Danfoss Technical Support
When troubleshooting complex Danfoss VFD fault codes, particularly internal faults like Alarm 38, direct engagement with Danfoss Technical Support can be essential. Their expertise provides access to in-depth knowledge and specialized diagnostic procedures beyond the scope of standard PDF documentation. Support representatives can assist with interpreting error logs (Parameter 15-30) and verifying correct parameter settings (Parameter 15-4).
Contacting support is especially crucial when encountering persistent issues or alarms related to earth faults (Alarm 14/45) or DC voltage problems (Alarm 7/8). Be prepared to provide detailed information about the VFD model, application, and the specific fault code sequence. Danfoss offers various support channels, including phone, email, and online portals, ensuring accessibility for diverse needs. Utilizing their direct assistance can significantly reduce downtime and ensure accurate resolution of challenging VFD problems.








































































