laser pump(general) problem?

[kempape]

laser (35 hp 3 phase, 220 volt rinse mtr)pulls about 80 amps. it threw 80 amp breaker this weekend. i removed belt and it pulled about 60 amps,,,,pressure seems good (1050 psi),,,pump makes no unusual noisies,and otherwise seems fine,,any suggestions?tia kemp

 

[MEP001]

I've never put an amp meter on a 35 hp motor with no load, but I wouldn't think it would still pull 60 amps.

 

[kempape]

does 80 amps(under load )seem excessive?

 

[Mike]

laser (35 hp 3 phase, 220 volt rinse mtr)pulls about 80 amps. it threw 80 amp breaker this weekend. i removed belt and it pulled about 60 amps,,,,pressure seems good (1050 psi),,,pump makes no unusual noisies,and otherwise seems fine,,any suggestions?tia kemp

Just look at the name plate on the motor and it will tell you the FLA (Full Load Amps).

BTW its a 25hp motor.

80 amps is not out of the question for a average run amprage for some of the 25 hp motors we have used over the years.

We spec 68-78 amps @ 208 - 240V (US) for the main pump, so if the site voltage drops under load to under 208 volt, yes the amps will go up higher.

You may have also had a "dead head" condition, where both hp valves were closed for some reason, causing the pump to run the water thru the by pass this would cause a pretty good spike in amps, I am pretty sure it would have tripped an 80 amp breaker.

Check your hp water valves on the output of the main pump, see if they are sticky or if the controls are not operating properly.

 

[ken-pro]

Our electricians would put that 25HP motor on a 100 Amp breaker - This allows for a 12.5% service factor which is acceptable for motor loads - At least in Canada. Our wire size here must also be capable of handling the extra 12.5% too.

I've seen these motors blow 100 amp breakers at times with slightly low site voltage (On a very busy summer day for instance).