Effects of brownouts and power spikes on linear power supplies

In summary, a linear power supply that provides 24 V to an inductive angle encoder can be affected by brownouts and power spikes.
  • #1
AEW
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What are the effects of brownouts and power spikes on linear power supplies in particular; e.g., a linear power supply that provides 24 V to an inductive angle encoder?

Thanks for any information you could provide.
 
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  • #2
AEW said:
What are the effects of brownouts and power spikes on linear power supplies in particular; e.g., a linear power supply that provides 24 V to an inductive angle encoder?
That depends on the voltage margin used in the design of the power supply. If brownouts are a problem, you will need to install an uninterruptible supply. "Power spikes" are not a physical problem, they are largely in the mind of the equipment operator. A switching supply can have greater voltage variation rejection, so should better resolve both of those problems.

Inductive angle encoders estimate the angle from ratiometric sine and cosine signals. The ratio should not be critically dependent on the reference amplitude. Inductive angle encoders are used because they are tolerant to large changes in reference amplitude. When an inductive system has problems, check for erratic sine and cosine signals with an X Y oscilloscope, looking for corroded connectors and broken wires.
 
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  • #3
AEW said:
What are the effects of brownouts and power spikes on linear power supplies in particular; e.g., a linear power supply that provides 24 V to an inductive angle encoder?
Do you have a particular design you are working on? Or is this question maybe for schoolwork?
 
  • #4
berkeman said:
Do you have a particular design you are working on? Or is this question maybe for schoolwork?
It is an industrial application. I am investigating intermittent failures of the encoder, and speculating that its power supply is not reliable because of sporadic brownouts and/or voltage spikes possibly affecting the AC line during peak operation of a rotating machine (permanent magnet synchronous motor).
 
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What kind of failure of the encoder? Can you give a link to its datasheet? Thanks.
 
  • #6
Encoder not powered/measuring anything. Here is the encoder https://www.celeramotion.com/ultra-incoder/ (at the bottom of the page). It transforms the 24 V from the linear power supply to 3.3 V before feeding the sensor electronic circuit.
 
  • #7
AEW said:
It is an industrial application. I am investigating intermittent failures of the encoder, and speculating that its power supply is not reliable because of sporadic brownouts and/or voltage spikes possibly affecting the AC line during peak operation of a rotating machine (permanent magnet synchronous motor).
The synchronous motor should not cause spikes. If you're getting poor power quality (i.e. intermittent low voltage, and spikes) it is the power company's problem. You may be forced to install a power quality monitoring device to document it. But such a device may be a good investment for your company.
 
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AEW said:
Here is the encoder https://www.celeramotion.com/ultra-incoder/ (at the bottom of the page)
Wow, that is a great product! I'll have to think of some good applications for it. :smile:

AEW said:
Encoder not powered/measuring anything
Sorry, I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed, but this makes no sense. The angle encoder that you linked to is definitely powered, apparently with 3 different input voltage options:

1656111791359.png


AEW said:
It transforms the 24 V from the linear power supply to 3.3 V before feeding the sensor electronic circuit.
What's "it"?

In your OP you said that you suspected a problem with a power supply that converts AC Mains to 24Vdc, not 3.3V for your unpowered sensor...
AEW said:
a linear power supply that provides 24 V to an inductive angle encoder

I'll go back to my toolshed now... :wink:
 

FAQ: Effects of brownouts and power spikes on linear power supplies

What are brownouts and power spikes?

Brownouts and power spikes are both types of disturbances in the electrical power supply. A brownout is a temporary decrease in voltage, while a power spike is a temporary increase in voltage. Both can be caused by various factors such as lightning strikes, equipment malfunctions, or power grid issues.

How do brownouts and power spikes affect linear power supplies?

Brownouts and power spikes can have detrimental effects on linear power supplies. The decrease or increase in voltage can cause the power supply to operate outside of its designed range, leading to potential damage or failure. This can also result in unstable output voltages, which can negatively impact any devices connected to the power supply.

What are the potential consequences of brownouts and power spikes on linear power supplies?

The consequences of brownouts and power spikes on linear power supplies can vary depending on the severity and duration of the disturbance. In some cases, the power supply may shut down to protect itself and any connected devices. However, if the disturbance is significant enough, it can cause permanent damage to the power supply, rendering it unusable.

How can the effects of brownouts and power spikes on linear power supplies be mitigated?

There are several ways to mitigate the effects of brownouts and power spikes on linear power supplies. One option is to use surge protectors or voltage regulators to help regulate the voltage and protect against sudden increases or decreases. Another solution is to use an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) which can provide backup power in case of a power outage or disturbance.

Are there any long-term effects of brownouts and power spikes on linear power supplies?

Yes, there can be long-term effects of brownouts and power spikes on linear power supplies. Repeated exposure to these disturbances can cause cumulative damage to the power supply, leading to reduced lifespan and potential failure. It is important to address any issues with the power supply and take steps to prevent future disturbances to ensure its longevity.

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