Atlas Copco Controller Fault Codes: Quick Troubleshooting Guide

Atlas Copco Controller Fault Codes: Quick Troubleshooting Guide

When your Atlas Copco compressor throws a controller fault, it is doing its job protecting the machine. Below is a practical, field-tested guide to interpret common Elektronikon messages and work through safe first checks.

Before You Start: Quick Safety

• Lock out and tag out power before opening panels.
• Document the exact fault text or code and conditions when it occurred.
• Do not clear service timers as a “fix.” Clear them only after maintenance is performed.

How These Faults Work

• Alarms allow operation but warn of an issue. Address soon.
• Faults/Trips stop the machine to prevent damage. Correct the cause, then reset.
• Codes may appear as letters plus numbers (example: A017, F011) or numbers only, depending on controller generation.

First Checks That Solve a Lot

• Incoming power and phase quality — verify correct voltage and stable supply at the main terminals.
• Interlocks and Run Enable — confirm emergency stop is released, doors are closed, and any external permissives are satisfied.
• Cables and connectors — reseat low-voltage plugs and controller ribbons; inspect for mechanical damage or corrosion.
• Cooling and ventilation — clean coolers, check fan operation, and ensure ambient temperature is within spec.

Common Atlas Copco Controller Messages & What To Check

1) “Blank Screen” or No Display

• Confirm 24 VDC control power is present at the controller.
• Reseat or replace display ribbon and low-voltage connectors.
• If power and wiring are good, the display or main controller board may be faulty.

2) A017 — Drive Not Healthy

• Cycle power and check the drive’s own status LEDs or HMI for an active trip.
• Inspect interface boards and drive modules for damage or loose connectors.
• If the drive won’t come ready after basic checks, isolate whether the issue is the drive, interface board, or controller.

3) Communication/Converter Timeout

• Look for broken or loose comms wiring between the Elektronikon and the VSD.
• Inspect the converter service switch position; some formats fail if the drive is stopped or in the wrong mode.
• Power down fully, wait, and restart so both devices boot cleanly.

4) Parameter/Format Fail (example: “Conv.FormatFail”)

• Verify the drive is in the correct service/run position and powered.
• Check that the expected parameter set is loaded; re-parameterize if corruption is suspected.
• If errors persist, reload parameters from a known good backup or consult your OEM parameter set.

5) F011/F006/F020/F023 — Overcurrent, Overvoltage, Motor or Inverter Temperature

• Overcurrent: Inspect for mechanical binding, jammed inlet valve, or downstream load issues. Spin the element by hand (power off) if accessible.
• Over-voltage: Check supply voltage and any braking resistor circuits on VSD units.
• Motor/Inverter temperature: Clean coolers, confirm fan operation, verify ambient and intake temps, and check temperature sensors and wiring.

6) “Run Enable Open” or Similar Status Bits

• Confirm all permissives are satisfied: door switches closed, remote enable present, pressure/temperature interlocks OK.
• Trace the Run Enable circuit from controller I/O to the drive. Repair broken wires or failed contacts.

Resetting After a Fault

• Correct the cause first. Then use the controller’s reset routine to clear the fault.
• If a fault returns immediately, stop and re-diagnose rather than cycling power repeatedly.

When To Stop and Call a Technician

• Repeated trips involving overcurrent, insulation alarms, or drive hardware faults.
• Evidence of board damage, burnt smell, or arcing.
• Parameter corruption you cannot verify or restore from backup.

Related Reading

• Why Won’t My Compressor Start?
• Compressor Turns On But Doesn’t Load
• Ingersoll Rand SSR Warnings: What Your Intellisys Panel Is Telling You