By: RK Electrical

Switchgear is the framework used for managing, protecting and isolating electrical circuits and equipment and includes things such as disconnect switches, fuses, circuit breakers, off-load isolators and more. It is high-powered electrical equipment which must be maintained properly in order to ensure a reliable electricity supply.

Switchgear Prevents System Damage and Service Interruptions
During normal operation, switchgear allows generators, transmission lines, distributors and other electrical equipment to switch on and off. However, when a short circuit occurs on any part of a power system, a strong current flows through the equipment, threatening damage and interruption of service. Switchgear is designed to detect these types of faults and disconnects the unhealthy section from the rest of the system to prevent further damage.

Testing, Inspection and Planned Maintenance Help Avoid Dangerous Risks
Malfunctioning switchgear can be dangerous. A blown circuit box can cause a power outage, resulting in downtime that may require a maintenance professional to repair or replace the equipment. Switchgear and breaker malfunctions can also cause major fires, explosions resulting in injury or facility closure. Therefore, switchgear testing, inspection and a planned maintenance program is essential. Switchgear which is labeled “maintenance-free” still requires testing and maintenance.

Identify Potential Issues by Cleaning and Torqueing Switchgear
By scheduling a planned system outage to clean and torque switchgear, your organization can help identify electrical issues, reveal flaws and reduce the risk of potential system failures. This process includes correcting any electrical drawing inconsistencies, torqueing connections, cleaning and inspection, performing tests, planned or unplanned repairs and system upgrades. It is recommended to perform this service every three years.

RK Electrical can perform switchgear maintenance operations and make repairs and adjustments to help you avoid emergency repairs. To schedule cleaning and torqueing maintenance for your switchgear contact us at rkelectrical@rkindustries.com.