In the May 2019 edition of Electrical Review magazine Paul Stead, head of sales and marketing at Saftronics Ltd, examines how the smart industry is affecting switchgear. With over 40 years’ experience of design and manufacture of low voltage switchgear, Saftronics Limited has kept at the forefront of electrical distribution

Specification of intelligent MCCs requires taking into consideration the variables of cost, capability, and complexity. Therefore, it is important to realistically assess your capabilities and objectives. Keep in mind that additional functionality usually comes with additional cost or complexity that you may not need. The following list are questions to

Distributed I/Os Locating distributed I/O within each MCC (preferably within each shipping split) reduces installation and commissioning time for a lower installed cost. Construction is common across applications and provides clear segregation between automation and motor control. This segregation can be important where division of responsibilities, existing spares, and training

There are several ways in which motor control centres can be made more cost-effective. Bit-level networks to replace traditional hardwiring MCCs in this category are characterized by simplicity. They will almost always deliver the lowest installed cost. They allow localisation of failures to improve maintenance and usually provide some additional

In an increasingly competitive world differentiating is harder than ever. One way this is possible is through improving the customer experience at every stage of their interaction with your business. Saftronics Ltd, a leading UK motor control centre manufacturer, recognised this and embarked on a significant Customer Journey Mapping exercise

Use of open networks, distributed I/Os, and electronic components is one way of defining an MCC as intelligent. Typically, intelligent systems have three things in common: Control is achieved through a microprocessor-based system Network technology is used to replace hardwiring Some degree of enhanced diagnostic or protective functionality is included.