What is included in preventative maintenance of electric motors?

Preventative maintenance of electric motors is crucial for ensuring their longevity and efficient operation. One key aspect of this maintenance is checking the temperature of the motor. Monitoring the temperature helps to identify potential overheating issues, which can indicate problems such as excessive load, insufficient ventilation, or internal electrical issues. Regular temperature checks allow operators to intervene before more serious failures occur, thus preventing costly downtime and repairs.

Other maintenance practices, while potentially beneficial, do not fit as neatly into the category of preventative measures. Lubricating the motor's outer shell, for instance, does not address internal mechanical issues adequately nor does it monitor operational metrics effectively. Replacing the motor with a new one is a corrective action rather than preventative maintenance, as it is undertaken only when the motor is no longer operable. Washing the motor with water can introduce moisture that may lead to corrosion or electrical failures if not done cautiously and can also disrupt other components, making it not a standard practice in preventative maintenance. Overall, regular temperature monitoring stands out as a proactive measure essential for the preventative maintenance of electric motors.