Vibration Monitoring for Position Sensor Fault Diagnosis in Brushless DC Motor Drives

A non-invasive technique for condition monitoring of brushless DC motor drives is proposed in this study Hall-effect position sensor fault diagnosis. Position faults affect rotor feedback, resulting faulty transitions, which turn cause current fluctuations and mechanical oscillations, derating system performance threatening life expectancy. The main concept the to detect using vibration signals, acquired by low-cost piezoelectric sensors. With aim, frequency spectrum output signal analyzed both under healthy operating conditions highlight signature. Therefore, second harmonic component evaluated as a reliable signature detection misalignment faults, while fourth investigated breakdown fault, considering single double faults. As localized at these components, Goertzel algorithm promoted an efficient tool analysis narrow band. Simulation results operation, conditions, are presented along with experimental results, verifying detecting manner.