Industrial control panels (ICPs) improve the efficiency of workflows, enhance productivity and also provide for cost-effective operations. But to get the most out of your system and to ensure that your processes are safe and free from downtimes, you need to maintain and care for your ICP. Remember that the components and the panel are pricey equipment and you may not want to waste them because of negligence. Here are some tips that will help you make the most out of your industrial control panel.
Temperature Control
It has been found that more than 55% of all equipment failure occurs due to heat and high temperature. Remember that the cooling unit or system of your ICP should be sized optimally. If the cooling unit is of a larger size than required, problems including moisture and condensation will be there. If the cooling unit is undersized heat, will call cause component failure. All the leading and reputed manufacturers of ICP provide the panels along with the NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) rating. For instance, the NEMA 12 panel can be used indoors and offers protection against non-corrosive liquid, dust, and dirt.
Also Read: Understanding The Basics Of Industrial Control Panels
The cooling unit of your ICP may be a fan, air conditioner, or an air-to-water heat exchanger. Remember that the fan cooled units need constant monitoring and the filter should be clean frequently. There is less maintenance required for the AC cooling cabinets and the filters may not require as frequent cleaning here. The “air to water” heat exchanger requires the least maintenance, is durable and also has the least operating cost.
Preventive Maintenance Is A Necessity
Whether it is a small electrical panel having a few components or a large multi-bay panel and cabinet, preventive maintenance is a necessity for all. While the small panels can be serviced at a single time, servicing and maintenance programs for larger panels are more elaborate, and the task has to be divided into smaller quadrants. The maintenance program will fix the loose connections, brittle wires, and the worn-off components will also be replaced.
Cleaning of the cabinet is also important. Compressed air is used to clean the areas that cannot be reached. Vacuuming is one of the best ways to ensure that the dust and debris remain in the system. Apart from these measures, labeling of the components, as well as documentation of the service schedules, is also required.
Also Read: Don’t Make These Mistakes When Choosing an Industrial Control Panel