MSP 3140 strike failure

[Binkspot]

Every once and a while we get a strike failure error on our exposure unit. I can go weeks without it happening then it will start. I'll burn 10 or so screens then the next 3 or 4 it will throw the error, all at random. Then start working fine again. There is no pattern to it, happens on hot or cold days. Checked all the connections, clean and tight, changed the bulb but keeps happening.

Is this just the nature of the beast, capicator going bad or something else? It's wired for 110vac and have it on a dedicated 20a circuit.

[patfinn]

Give the M&R a call and ask for Israel with NuArc service. (800)736-6431

[Admiral]

We have had to replace a few things on our MSP3140, wiring / iron threads that wire the bulb to the units electronics.  It could be starting to go somewhere and not supplying the proper electricity anymore.  Ours actually gave off a bit of a burning smell just before going and we had to replace the special metal screw that carries the current through it to the bulb.

It's not going to get better before it gets worse so call M&R and see what you need. 

[blue moon]

We have had to replace a few things on our MSP3140, wiring / iron threads that wire the bulb to the units electronics.  It could be starting to go somewhere and not supplying the proper electricity anymore.  Ours actually gave off a bit of a burning smell just before going and we had to replace the special metal screw that carries the current through it to the bulb.

It's not going to get better before it gets worse so call M&R and see what you need.

we had a similar problem with ours, but that was on the first generation before M&R bought them. I think Brian has a newer unit (which has beefed up wiring).

pierre

[inkman996]

We have had ours for a couple years now and it has happened very rarely. It does not seem to be an issue since it is so rare which always made me think it just didn't get enough amps while striking. The circuit it is on is not dedicated but the only other thing running on it is a single bank of fluorescent lights.

[Colin]

We had this happen a lot last year.  We had a tech in last November for various fixes and he set our "Draw Down/Vacuum" timer to 50 seconds.  That has stopped every instance of strike failures.

It has something to do with things getting to hot among the components.  The 50 second break gives everything enough time to cool off.

So, double check your draw down time!

[RonH]

Another thing to check is the tap setting on the power transformer inside the unit.  There are several taps where you can match the unit to the incoming voltage to the unit.  If it is off too far in the wrong direction it can cause starting problems.  Also check to see that the vents around the base of the unit are clean and not blocked with anything and also check the fans to be sure they are operating and not restricted in any way.  If the bulb does not cool down enough it can take longer for it to re-strike.  If you are still having issues do as was already suggested and call for Israel Martinez who  can walk you thru the different things to check.

Ron Hopkins
NuArc Sales Mgr.
M&R Sales and Service Co.
O:770-254-1584
C:847-997-2487

[Binkspot]

Thanks guys.
Yes it is a newer unit 2010 I think.
Like I said its a random thing that has not gotten any worse but would like to solve the issue.
The unit is spotless inside and out, vents clear, fans working. I have not checked the taps but will later this week. The voltage is a little low in the shop, 108-111 vac. Our old shop had a pure 120-125 vac and never had trouble there.

[Evo]

Thanks guys.
Yes it is a newer unit 2010 I think.
Like I said its a random thing that has not gotten any worse but would like to solve the issue.
The unit is spotless inside and out, vents clear, fans working. I have not checked the taps but will later this week. The voltage is a little low in the shop, 108-111 vac. Our old shop had a pure 120-125 vac and never had trouble there.

There is a wire swap that may need to be done inside to calibrate it for the metered voltage. I had to do it on the one I had. It's an easy fix. Call/write M&R and they can walk you through it.