Challenges Involving Aging Equipment Part Two
In our previous article we discussed the impact that aging equipment has on running a business. We talked in-depth about how proper maintenance and regular electrical component part replacement, electrical equipment can continue to function properly.
Power circuit breakers require regular maintenance to guarantee accurate function while sustaining equipment warranties. The scale of maintenance recommended on power circuit breakers includes the following:
- Regular physical assessments
- Ongoing cleaning and lubrication
- Consistent equipment adjustments
- Examination of overcurrent protective devices
- Routine circuit testing
- Dielectric testing
- Speed and time assessment
New surplus or reconditioned electrical components are often needed to be installed to restore circuit breakers to like new operating condition.
Some facilities choose to recondition electrical components on their equipment in house. In order to refurbish a circuit breaker they are tested in comparison to ANSI standards and then disassembled from top to bottom, scoured and examined. All damaged parts are then repaired, refurbished or replaced. After this step is performed the points of pivot are all scrubbed and lubed. The circuit breaker is then reassembled and retested.
Additional repairs may be needed depending on a number of things such as how old the equipment is, the location it is being used in, how readily replacement components can be found, cost associated with the ongoing upkeep and new technology becoming available.
The dependability of electrical equipment comes down to this; it isn’t a question of if there will be a failure or malfunction it is a question of when it will occur. Plant managers need to consider the cost of maintaining aging or obsolete equipment verse replacing equipment that takes advantage of updates in technology.
One such update in electrical circuit breakers comes with the addition of switchgear. Switchgear is a combination of electrical components such as disconnect switches, fuses and circuit breakers. The switchgear is used similarly to the main disconnect in a circuit breaker box; the switchgear will energize and de-energize electrical equipment.
The current of electricity needs to be controlled in electrical equipment for a multitude of reasons. Whether upgrading to switchgears or staying the course, maintain the current electrical circuit breaker it is crucial that the component continues to function properly to maintain the safety of equipment. When performing maintenance on electrical equipment or replacing refurbished electrical components within commercial equipment the electrical power flowing to the machine must be completely shut off. To avoid electrocution the current of electricity needs to be completely shut off. The equipment and maintenance personal should also take safety precautions to ensure that they are properly grounded in case even the slightest current is still stored within the circuit.
J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company. At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.
