Why does my Altivar Process Drive show "CLI" status on top left corner and then trip on an OLF fault?

Resolution:
The CLI status indicates that the drive has entered Current Limitation mode because the motor is drawing excessive current. If the overload condition continues, the drive may trigger an OLF (Motor Overload Fault) to protect the motor.

What Do CLI and OLF Mean?

• CLI (Current Limitation): The drive is limiting output current to prevent excessive motor current.
• OLF (Motor Overload Fault): The motor has exceeded its thermal protection threshold due to prolonged overcurrent operation.

When Does an OLF Fault Occur?

The OLF fault is triggered when the motor thermal state (tHr) reaches 118%. The fault can be reset once the motor thermal state falls below 100%. To monitor the motor thermal state:

[Display] → [Motor Parameters] → [Motor Thermal State (tHr)]

Recommended Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check Actual Motor Current: Review motor current values in: [Display] → [Motor Parameters]
2. Verify Motor Parameters. Confirm that all motor nameplate data is entered correctly: [Complete Settings] → [Motor Parameters]
3. Review Dual Rating Configuration. Verify the drive's dual rating setting matches the application requirements. Adjust only if the motor and application are correctly sized for Heavy Duty operation.
4. Test the Motor Without the Mechanical Load. If possible, uncouple the motor and run it without the driven equipment to determine whether the load is causing the overcurrent condition.4
5. Check Drive Output. Temporarily disable Output Phase Loss monitoring: [Complete Settings] → [Error/Warning Handling] → [Output Phase Loss (OPL)]
   Run the drive without a motor connected and verify output voltage is present and balanced.
6. Inspect the Motor and Wiring. If the drive operates normally, investigate the motor and installation:
   - Verify correct motor rotation.
   - Check motor windings and insulation resistance (recommended test with a 1000 V megohmmeter).
   - Inspect motor cables, terminals, and connections.
   - For motor cables longer than 300 ft (90 m), consider installing an output reactor or output filter.

Repeated CLI indications are typically a symptom of excessive motor load, incorrect motor configuration, mechanical binding, motor wiring issues, or a motor-related fault. Identifying the source of the overcurrent condition is essential to prevent recurring OLF trips.

If this article does not answer your question, check out our FAQ database that has answers to more commonly asked questions:

Frequently Asked Questions - Schneider Electric (se.com)

If this FAQ did not solve your issue, you can call us at 1-888-778-2733 Option 2 and then 4 or e-mail us atdrive.products.support@se.comto create a case with our Technical Support Team.

If you are not located in North America, please contact your local Customer Care Center for assistance:

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Released for: Schneider Electric Canada