C.P. SENTINEL AUTOMATIC TYPE CATHODIC PROTECTION RECTIFIER MANUAL
INTEGRATED RECTIFIER TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
Doc #: APC0010
Rev. 3.0, November, 2004
Page 22 of 22
D. RECTIFIER FUSE BLOWS: Fuse failure may be due to the following:
Fuses may blow due to either excessive current. In an automatic rectifier, this
type of failure is mainly due to failure in the SCR-Diode module. Replace failed
module and fuse, and re-energize rectifier.
Fuses may blow due to excessive operating temperature. Excessive
temperature on the fuse is typically caused by either corrosion or weakening of
the gripping tension on the fuse clips or fuse holder. Replace defective fuse
components when this occurs.
E. RECTIFIER AC BREAKER TRIPS: AC Breaker tripping may be resolved as follows:
Visually inspect the rectifier AC input surge arrestor for damage (usually located
adjacent to the AC input terminals). If the housing of the arrestor is cracked or
blackened, the arrestor has failed and should be replaced. Always replace the
arrestor with one of the same type. If an immediate replacement cannot be
obtained, the rectifier can operate without this arrestor for a limited period,
however, please remember that the rectifier then has no protection against
surges. In certain circumstances, the arrestor may also fail without any external
signs of damage. As such, to ensure that the AC arrestor is not the problem and
with the AC power “OFF”, disconnect the wires of the arrestor from the circuit
breaker terminals. If the rectifier circuit breaker now remains in the “ON” position
when energized, the arrestor has failed and should be replaced.
If the breaker still trips to the “OFF” position, disconnect the wires between output
(bottom) terminals of the rectifier circuit breaker (CB1) and the AC primary of the
main transformer (T1). If the rectifier circuit breaker now remains in the “ON”
position when energized, the problem is further downstream in the rectifier.
Reconnect the wires in the step above. Remove the wires from the transformer
secondary to the SCR-Diode module. Note: This may be accomplished by open-
circuiting the rectifier secondary fuse; if so equipped. If the breaker still trips to the
“OFF” position, the main transformer has most likely failed and should be replaced
(consult the factory for a replacement).
Another possibility is that the AC configuration terminals of the main transformer
(T1) (for dual input types only) are incorrectly set for the actual AC input voltage
applied to the rectifier. Please confirm that these terminals are configured properly
(refer to the electrical schematic) for the AC voltage being applied.
The final possibility is most likely that the rectifier AC input circuit breaker itself has
failed and will require replacement.
F. RECTIFIER OUTPUT IS INTERMITTENT: Possible causes for erratic are:
Broken or loose connections. Check all rectifier connections for loose or broken
connections. Include the wiring connections to the SENTRY Controller.
Check if built-in or field attached interrupters are in operation.
TROUBLESHOOTING SUMMARY:
As rectifier problems in automatic units can be more easily solved by having a good working
knowledge of the application and the workings of the rectifier, review this manual to ensure
recommended installation practices have been followed. If a problem cannot be solved, please
contact your rectifier dealer or the factory for technical assistance.