Electrical – Broken stepper motor – Too high of a load

arduinostepper motorstepper-driver

I am using a NEMA 17 (17HD4005-22B) with a Big Easy Driver and an Arduino Uno R3. I am using the motor to move a threaded rod, which then pumps a liquid. The system basically functions as a linear actuator.

After trying to move a much too high load, I noticed that the stepper motor was not turning correctly. It moved erraticaly forwards and backwards a couple of steps. I also noticed to following:

  • When I give it the signal to turn, I can turn the shaft very easily with my hand in either direction
  • When it is powered and without any signal to turn, I can turn the shaft easily with my hand in either direction most of the time. If I crank the potentiometer all the way, I can not move it anymore
  • I connected the motor to the stepper drivers of an i3-clone printer, and the motor does not turn. The previous two observations remained
  • I connected the Big Easy Driver and Arduino to one the motors of the 3D-Printer and the 3d-printer motor did not turn
  • Both windings of the broken motor have the same resistance

My doubts:

  • Is it possible that the high load caused the stepper to break?

  • Is it possible the driver is also broken?

  • How can I check any these possibilities?

Best Answer

Motors fail from inadequate current controlled torque.

Your testing and results in your question must include;

  • coil DCR of each motor, current setting / rating, max acceleration, max velocity threshold for slip errors

It unlikely you have a faulty motor and more likely excessive acceleration for the new load.

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