How we repaired a damaged switchboard
A recent emergency call to the MPE Group team revealed the disastrous effect of not properly maintaining a switchboard.
We were able to restore the switchboard to its original capacity by performing critical repair work. However, these repairs were short term fixes - this switchboard was far too deteriorated for it to safely function for long.
Ultimately, a full-scale switchboard replacement was necessary - although expensive for our client!
So how exactly can you prevent such a costly and dangerous issue like a switchboard blow-up from occurring?
Let’s start with the basics:
What is a switchboard?
Made up of several electrical panels containing switches that redirect electricity, a switchboard directs electricity from the main supply to wherever it needs to go.
The amount of power received by switchboards must be equal or greater to the amount of power distributed by them. There are controls which monitor and limit the power distribution process. There are also several load sharing devices.
Switchboards carry voltage and current, which tend to heat up the lines due to energy flow in the system, and so if maintenance isn’t practiced, then - much like the switchboard here - faults, short circuits and blow-ups can occur.
How’d it happen?
The cause of this particular problem was largely due to an electrical arcing fault (also known as tracking) between the live busbars housed within the switchboard.
Generally, this is caused by either the entry of water, or - as in this case - the presence of dirt and debris.
How do you prevent switchboard damage?
Like with all operational equipment, proper care is vital. Preventative annual maintenance, including cleaning and servicing would have likely prevented the fault from occurring.
The benefits of a maintained switchboard include ensuring safety, as well as increasing the lifespan of the switchboard, and a reduced amount of unexpected equipment failures.
Long story short, it’s a worthwhile investment for both the longevity of your equipment, and to ensure the safety of your employees.
How’d MPE Group fix the switchboard?
For a short-term solution, our team carried out the following repairs:
Main switchboard repairs
1600 amp moulded case circuit breaker replacement
Busbar repair work
Busbar replacement with flexible cabling
Switchboard cleaning
Other Maintenance Tips
In addition to preventative maintenance and testing, there are some other maintenance tips that operators should note:
Keep records of past inspections and a detailed schedule of installed switchboards.
Purchase spare switchboard parts to keep on hand for vital operations.
Have a well-stocked shop with testing instruments and storage of spare parts for safety and efficiency.
Only those authorised to operate the switchboard should perform regular maintenance and inspections.