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AQUAVAR Pump System and Aquavar CPC
Aquavar CPC 29 Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I use an external contact to start and stop the controller?
How do I use an external analog signal in place of the transducer to increase and decrease the speed of the pump?
How do I change the pressure setpoint?
My transducer has failed. Can I manually run the pump to supply some water until I get a new transducer?
What is the pass code needed to change parameters?
I know that I have leaks in my system but I don't want the pump to cycle on and off so much.
My motor rotates backwards
I have a multiple pump system and 'STOPPED' is displayed at the button of one of the displays.
How do I size the Aquavar CPC for my pump?
Can I use the service factor amps to size my pump?
Can I use a single phase input for my Aquavar CPC?
Can I use a phase converter with the Aquavar CPC?
Can I use the Aquavar CPC with a submersible pump and motor?
Can I use the Aquavar CPC for single phase 460Volt input power?
What are the standard warranty terms for the Aquavar CPC?
Can I use one transducer for a multi-drive operation?
Can you use the Aquavar drive on a 230Volt "Open Delta" 3 wire power system?
Can I connect the Aquavar to a SCADA system for monitoring and control?
What other Field Bus protocols does the Aquavar support?
Can I connect other style pump mounted Aquavar units to the Aquavar CPC in multi-control?
Do I need a bladder tank in my system? If so, what size?
What pressure do I charge my tank?
Can I use my existing tank size or multiple tanks on retro-fit jobs?
Can I use standard efficiency NEMA motors with the Aquavar?
Is there any maintenance required for the Aquavar?
Where are the units stocked and supported?
Where are the units manufactured or assembled?
What are most problems caused by?
Do I need other equipment or a PLC (programmable logic controller) for use in the Multi-Pump configuration?
Answers
How do I use an external contact to start and stop the controller?
Use a normally closed switch connected between terminals 10 and 13 on the X1 terminal strip. Parameter 2408 must be set to 'ENABLE'. The controller will start when the contact is closed and stop when the contact is open. Note: the pump will not necessarily run when the contact is closed but is enable to start and stop based on the analog input from the transducer.
How do I use an external analog signal in place of the transducer to increase and decrease the speed of the pump?
The speed reference signal should be connected to the AI1 input (terminal 2 and 3). Parameter 1601 must be set to 'Analog Input'. Set parameter 1604 to either '0-10 VDC' or '4-20mA' (According to signal that you are using) set parameter 1102 to 'SPEED CONTROL'. Set parameter 1402 to '0'. Hit the START button on the keypad and the controller will increase and decrease the speed of the motor based on the signal connected to AI1.
How do I change the pressure setpoint?
The controller must be in the Remote mode. 'REM' will be displayed in the upper left hand corner of the display. Use the UP and DOWN arrow on the keypad to change the setpoint. The top line of text on the display is the set point. You can see this value change as you push and hold the arrow buttons. If the setpoint will not change, check that the set point lock is not 'ON' in parameter 1006.
My transducer has failed. Can I manually run the pump to supply some water until I get a new transducer?
Yes. The controller can be switched into local mode. Hit the LOC/REM button on the keypad. The display will show "switching to local control mode". If the display reads "Button disabled, locallock", check that parameter 1013 is set to 'OFF'. Once in Local mode you will need to hit the left soft key under "RESET" to reset the fault. Hit the START button on the keypad. The pump should start and the pump will run at the frequency set by pushing and holding the UP and DOWN arrow buttons. Be aware that the pump will continue to run at this set speed until the STOP button is pressed. A loss of demand will not stop the controller as it does in Remote mode.
What is the pass code needed to change parameters?
The default pass code is '66'. There is a master pass code available by calling the factory. Parameter 1001 must also be set to 'OPEN' to change parameters.
I know that I have leaks in my system but I don't want the pump to cycle on and off so much.
There is a restart value available to let the pressure drop further before the pump turns on. Set parameter 1405 to the value you want the pump to start at. This value is a percentage. Using a set point of 100 PSI, a restart value of '80%' means the pump remains off until the pressure drops down to 80 PSI. The start time can be delayed further by entering a time delay in parameter 1406.
My motor rotates backwards
Motor rotation can only be changed by switching any 2 wires on the output side of the controller. Changing wires on the Input side of the controller will have no affect on motor rotation. The 'DIR' button on the keypad is not functional with the Aquavar CPC.
I have a multiple pump system and 'STOPPED' is displayed at the button of one of the displays.
The controller was stopped by someone hitting the STOP button or by one of the digital inputs. Press the START button and the controller should start again, displaying a pump number on the third line of the display. Check if any of the digital inputs are being used. There would be something connected to terminal 13, 14 or 15. Terminal 15 is the E-Stop and there will be a jumper here if there is not a switch contact connected. Every time the E-stop is activated, the START button will need to be pressed. An E-Stop will not automatically reset. Inputs on terminals 13 and 14 should automatically reset as long as parameter 1202 is set to 'ON'.
How do I size the Aquavar CPC for my pump?
The Aquavar CPC just like other VFD's are current rated devices. Therefore, once you size the pump and motor, size the drive to meet or exceed the motor amperage based on voltage.
Example: I have a 5HP pump/motor combination and my input supply voltage is 230 volt 3phase. The above ground NEMA rated motor is listed as 15.2 Amps. Therefore, you can use a 5HP, 230Volt Aquavar CPC.
Can I use the service factor amps to size my pump?
Yes. Remember, NEMA motor manufacturers allow service factor use intermittently NOT CONTINUOUS. If you need service factor amps temporarily, size it using the service factor amps. In hot environments or high elevations, it is NOT recommended to use service factor for above ground motors.
Can I use a single phase input for my Aquavar CPC?
Yes. Single phase 208-240 volt power can be used for the drive. The drive must be de-rated by 50% based on motor amperage. Check out the sizing guide in the price book.
Example: 5HP, 230volt pump and motor, you must size a single phase input using a 10HP Aquavar CPC (double the size of the motor). Single phase power has higher current draw on the input to the drive.
Can I use a phase converter with the Aquavar CPC?
NO. The Aquavar acts as a balanced phase converter already.
Can I use the Aquavar CPC with a submersible pump and motor?
Yes. Make sure you size the Aquavar to meet or exceed the submersible motor service factor amperage and make sure to use a load reactor on long motor leads. Check IOM for more information.
Can I use the Aquavar CPC for single phase 460Volt input power?
Yes. In some applications where only single phase 460volt power is available, you can use the CPC controller with proper de-rating of the drive. A good starting point is 50% de-rate (use a 20HP drive for a 10HP pump load); this will vary depending upon the size. An input harmonic filter is also recommended for harmonic distortion back to the utility grid. Contact the factory for more sizing assistance.
What are the standard warranty terms for the Aquavar CPC?
All Aquavar products have a 24/30 month workmanship/product defect warranty. 24 months from start up OR maximum 30 months from manufacture date code. The serial number indicates the build date.
Can I use one transducer for a multi-drive operation?
Yes, however, you will lose the back up capability if the transducer malfunctions or is damaged. Each Aquavar package includes our recommended 300psi stainless steel transducer with shielded cable.
Can you use the Aquavar drive on a 230Volt "Open Delta" 3 wire power system?
Yes, however, this is sometimes referred to as a "wild leg" delta system. This is really a single phase system with two transformers to derive a third leg. This system provides POOR POWER regulation under loads. When you take a static voltage check, it may appear o.k. However, when you start the pump the third leg will vary. Treat these as SINGLE phase systems and over size your drive. Use a 20HP drive on a 10HP 230volt pump.
Can I connect the Aquavar to a SCADA system for monitoring and control?
Yes. The Aquavar CPC has digital inputs, analog outputs, dry relays, and MODBUS protocol via an RS485 terminal. Depending on how much the operator needs to monitor and control will depend on the complexity of the central system.
What other Field Bus protocols does the Aquavar support?
At this time only MODBUS is a supported protocol to communicate with outside management systems.
Can I connect other style pump mounted Aquavar units to the Aquavar CPC in multi-control?
Yes, the different styles of Aquavar units are backward compatible connecting each unit via the RS485 serial interface. Connect the Aquavar CPC terminal #31 goes to #3 on the pump mounted, #29 goes to #2 and #30 goes to #1 on the terminal block X5.
Do I need a bladder tank in my system? If so, what size?
Yes. It is recommended that a small tank is used on the discharge side of the system, after the last check valve. A tank tee or branch can be used to plumb the pressure transducer and tank. Size the tank 10-20% of total flow rate of the first pump in the system.
Example: If I have a 100 GPM submersible pump, I would size a 20 gallon total volume tank.
What pressure do I charge my tank?
10-15psi below system discharge pressure.
Can I use my existing tank size or multiple tanks on retro-fit jobs?
No. Little draw down that is used during ramp up of the drive, there may develop stagnate water in larger tanks. The tank is used to cushion the system on start up and shut down. Valve off other large tanks in the system because the total draw down will not be used in drive operated pumping systems. A drive operated pump and motor can withstand many more start and stop cycles without damage.
Can I use standard efficiency NEMA motors with the Aquavar?
Yes. Standard efficiency above ground TEFC and ODP motors can be controlled by the Aquavar without additional filtering. In most cases you can achieve a 10:1 turn down ratio with safe operation. Vertical Hollow shaft (VHS) and Vertical Solid Shaft (VSS) motors may require Premium Efficient motors when used with drives.
Is there any maintenance required for the Aquavar?
Keep the drive cool (below 104F ambient) away from direct sun, free from dirt buildup, and free from direct spray of water (unless housed in another enclosure).
Where are the units stocked and supported?
Goulds Pumps stocks product at our various customer service centers throughout the US and Canada: Dallas TX, Lake Mary FL, Fresno CA, Auburn NY, Guelph Ontario Canada, Seneca Falls NY (main tech support).
Where are the units manufactured or assembled?
Milwaukee WI and Dallas TX.
What are most problems caused by?
Electrical wiring, loose wiring, transducer wiring, motor leads incorrect and programming. A good installation requires a qualified electrician and use of the instruction manual for reference. Step by step start up information is contained in the IOM.
Do I need other equipment or a PLC (programmable logic controller) for use in the Multi-Pump configuration?
No. It is possible to connect up to 4 Aquavar units together via the serial interface without additional equipment. The Aquavar units communicate to provide the lead-lag, alternating and automatic fault backup. Just wire up each pressure transducer, then connect the Aquavar's together using a shielded 3 wire communication cable and you are done!
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