Recognising the significance of routine maintenance for electrical switchgear

June 28, 2023 5:51 pm

Switchgears are critical in ensuring the safety of electrical equipment, operators, and maintenance personnel.

Electricity has become an integral aspect of our everyday lives, powering a wide array of devices and machinery and serving as a vital force in facilitating the seamless operations of numerous industries.

According to Research and Markets, the global switchgear market is expected to reach $161.4 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 5.5 percent from 2020 to 2025. However, it is essential to understand that electrical equipment, such as switchgear, needs regular maintenance to ensure proper functioning.

Importance of regular electrical switchgear maintenance
Electrical switchgear, an important component of an electrical power system, is responsible for controlling, protecting, and isolating electrical equipment. It is a combination of electrical disconnect switches, fuses or circuit breakers, and protective relays arranged in a series of panels. Switchgears are critical in ensuring the safety of electrical equipment, operators, and maintenance personnel.

The safety of personnel and equipment is of utmost importance in any electrical system. Regular switchgear maintenance ensures that all equipment is functioning properly and is in good condition, reducing the risk of electrical hazards, such as electrical shock, fire, and explosions.

The switchgear failure can result in costly downtime and lost production. Regular maintenance ensures that potential issues are identified and resolved before they become major problems, leading to reduced downtime and increased productivity. A study by Schneider Electric found that unplanned downtime can cost industrial companies an average of $260,000 per hour.

Proper and regular maintenance is cost-effective. This ensures that equipment runs efficiently, prolonging its life and reducing the risk of expensive repairs or replacements. Proper maintenance reduces wear and tear, ensuring equipment runs smoothly and efficiently for longer periods.

It ensures that electrical equipment runs efficiently, leading to increased energy savings. Efficiently running equipment also ensures that the system works at its optimal capacity, leading to better performance.

The catastrophic failure of electrical switchgear equipment can lead to devastating consequences, including equipment damage, production loss, and even loss of life. Implementing regular maintenance practices is crucial in preventing such failures, as it enables the early detection and resolution of potential issues before they escalate.

Manage risk, attain operational excellence, and ensure personnel safety by utilising Schneider EcoStruxure Asset Advisor meant for electrical distribution. This cutting-edge electrical asset management software harnesses real-time data from crucial connected assets and employs advanced analytics to detect potential failure modes.

Electrical switchgear maintenance is a legal requirement in most countries. Regular maintenance ensures compliance with regulatory requirements, avoiding costly penalties and legal issues.

Conclusion
Regular maintenance is critical in ensuring the safety and efficiency of electrical power systems, with electrical switchgear serving as vital components. A study by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) found that electrical failures were the second leading cause of non-confined home structure fires, resulting in an average of 440 deaths and $1.3 billion in property damage yearly.

As highlighted in a report by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), approximately 30 percent of electrical equipment failures can be attributed to inadequate maintenance practices. This underscores the importance of engaging qualified and experienced personnel to conduct regular maintenance, thereby ensuring electrical equipment’s optimal functioning and efficiency.

Reference:
https://balajiswitchgears.com/understanding-the-importance-of-regular-electrical-switchgears-maintenance/