An electrical switchgear is a collection of circuit breakers, fuses, switches, and other circuit protection devices. Typically mounted together in a metal enclosure, these devices help distribute power throughout a manufacturing facility to handle required electrical loads. Replacing or upgrading them can be tricky, since you might face issues with access, downtime, or budget, so it's not something you'd likely do without cause. Moreover, most are designed to last decades. Nevertheless, below are some signs that it's time to replace your switchgear.

When Should I Upgrade My Switchgear?

1. It Interrupts Critical Processes

Critical processes are the ones your facility performs that are visible and necessary for a customer's satisfaction. This often includes procedures involving manufacturing, assembly, testing, or processing. If you find that one or more critical processes are repeatedly interrupted due to blown fuses, tripped breakers, or bad switches, it's time to invest the time and effort in replacing your switchgear. Failure to do so could cost you a client and affect your company's bottom line,

2. You Need Increased Electrical Capacity

If you need additional electrical output, first try to squeeze more load out of your existing transformer. You may also be able to shift loads between multiple substations or increase the number of feeders by stacking them. If these solutions are not practical, it could be time to upgrade your switchgear. This will give you more room to contain additional transformers, breakers, etc. and boost your electrical capacity. 

3. It Exhibits Frequent Breakdowns

Even if switchgear breakdowns don't interrupt critical processes, these should not happen frequently enough that your maintenance costs soar. If you're constantly paying to repair breakdowns and depleting your spare parts supply, it might be better to upgrade. You could limp along for years extending the old one's life, when a new assembly would let you operate more efficiently, without interruption and without the cost of repeated repairs.

If you need a new electrical switchgear, contact CDA Engineering in Troy, MI for quality products and services. They have served Oakland County and the Detroit Metro area since 1970. They specialize in mechanical, industrial, electrical engineering and process automation, and they're known for their attention to detail and commitment to client satisfaction. Learn more about them by visiting their website or call (248) 589-3300 to discuss your switchgear needs.