Dixell/Copeland AL08 Error Code

What does Dixell/Copeland AL08 mean?

On the Dixell IC100CX iChill controller, AL08 is the thermal protection alarm bypass delay for compressors. After a compressor starts, the thermal protection digital input is ignored for the duration set in AL08. This prevents nuisance thermal alarms during the high-current startup transient before the compressor reaches steady-state operating temperature.

Symptoms

• Thermal protection alarm triggers immediately after compressor start (if AL08 = 0 or set too short).
• Compressor starts then trips quickly on thermal alarm before reaching normal operating temperature.
• With AL08 set correctly, thermal alarms are suppressed for the configured delay after each start.

Common causes

• AL08 set to zero or too short, allowing the thermal overload to trip during inrush or startup.
• Thermal overload or PTC relay in the compressor circuit is too sensitive for the application.
• Compressor is genuinely overheating due to high discharge temperature, inadequate cooling, or loss of refrigerant.
• Electrical supply issue causing compressor to draw excessive current on start, triggering the thermal overload.

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Diagnostic steps

1. Check the current AL08 value

   Access the AL sub-menu on the IC100CX and verify AL08 (in seconds). Compare to the compressor manufacturer's recommended startup bypass time. Typical values are 30–120 seconds.

2. Monitor compressor current during startup

   Use a clamp meter to measure compressor current at startup. Compare to the nameplate FLA and LRA. Excessive current indicates motor, electrical supply, or mechanical problems unrelated to the AL08 setting.

3. Verify thermal overload or PTC relay setpoint

   Check the thermal protection device setpoint. If it is tripping during normal startup, it may need adjustment or replacement with a device calibrated for the specific compressor.

4. Check compressor discharge temperature

   If the compressor is genuinely overheating after the AL08 period, measure discharge line temperature. Elevated discharge temperature requires investigation of refrigerant charge, condenser, and system loading.

5. Review AL09 (max thermal alarm count) setting

   AL09 sets the maximum number of thermal alarms per hour before manual reset is required. Confirm AL09 is set to an appropriate value that prevents compressor damage from repeated thermal trips.

When to call a professional

If the compressor overheats after the AL08 bypass period expires and the thermal alarm trips during steady-state operation, a licensed refrigeration technician must investigate the root cause. Genuine compressor overheating can result in permanent motor winding damage if left unaddressed.