Orion Vortex ESC 70amp - Warning...
 

Just a word of warning really...

I bought one of these to use with a Novak 8.5T motor, as it was advertised (in more than 1 place) as >6.5T.

I have just found out, after 3 weeks of hassle with over-heating issues, that it's actually >10.5T!!!

I am now really annoyed and £50 out of pocket :cry:

I have seen a few posts on here with people having 'issues' with these ESC's... this could possibly be the issue.

Well its a bit more complex than that. I've been running one for ages in my B4 with a 7.5 motor and not had a problem, but then I tried it in my old Cat'98 I use for indoor racing and it wouldn't run for 3 minutes without overheating.

The problem with the Cat, one you will also have with your Durga is that the ESC sits literally right next to the motor. Which means all the heat the motor pumps out goes to the esc, and vice versa. They effectively overheat each other.

In part I solved the problem by fitting a heatsink with fan to the motor, cooling that, another fan to the esc and fitted the receiver between the two as a buffer. Its not perfect as its still runs warm, but it doesn't get hot enough to shut down in a 5 minute race at least.


So the esc can handle motors lower than 10.5, right down to 7.5 for sure, but only with adequate cooling and the right location. I suspect the revised 10.5 limit is due to too many complaints just like yours and mine, which are more car specific. Its 10.5 in a Durga or an old Cat, but 6.5 in a 2wd!

It seems it is more complicated.

I have now spoken to someone at Orion about this, and they have assured me that they have used this ESC with a 5.5T motor in a TC, with lots more space and airflow, and also more grip, which keeps the temp down on the motor.

Also, after speaking with Nick at demon (where I bought it), he is sending me a fan for it :thumbsup:, so I'll try it with that and a heat-sink on the motor (if it'll fit). Probably try cutting the shell a bit more too.

The other issue for me, is that it could easily be the motor that is making things worse, as I bought it second-hand, and haven't tested it properly. What is there that can be 'wrong' with a brushless motor? It's not like there are brushes to be worn out. If I could try with a different motor, at least I could narrow the problem down.

They definately run VERY hot. I've just bought a muchmore high rpm fan for it. I runt it with a reedy 3 start (9t) motor and have had to gear it quite low recently to achieve a 5 minute race. Will try it soon with the fan, but i'm pretty confident it'll solve the problem