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Unread 20-02-2012, 09:43
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Re: Shooter burning motors...but why?

Are the motors hot when they fail?

If you have the ability to measure rpm, this can be a really good diagnostic tool. Run your shooter at "free speed", full power. Use the gear ratio to calculate the actual rpm of the motor, and compare it to the motor data sheet. If you are running at 50% the motors free speed, then you are also running near full power for the motor which will cause it to get hot fairly quickly. If you are running below 50% free speed, you are in the death zone for those motors. You will need to figure out how to free up your shooter mechanisms to reduce friction. You will want to get the free speed of the assembly at or near the calculated free speed.

With 7:1, free speed of that assembly relative to motor free speed should be approximately 2100 rpm. If you are around 1100 rpm, then you are running at or near peak power. Below 1100 rpm is certain death. At around 1500 and above, you stand a pretty good chance of the motor living.

If you do not have a way of measuring rpm, remove just the motor and try turning the assembly. It should spin relatively freely. If not, check for bound bearings, shafts, or other areas of frictional losses.

Also, do you have a way to measure current? Current will tell you a lot about how much power is going in. If you an measure those values and post, someone here may be able to help diagnose further. Pictures would be helpful as well.