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Industrial Power Equipment: Three Considerations for Switchroom Selection

by Martin Williamson

Switchrooms are essential structures in numerous industrial worksites because they provide protection to expensive and critical electrical power equipment. Therefore, if you are planning on acquiring a switchroom for the first time or upgrading your current set-up, you should acquire the right professional group for assistance. In ideal circumstances, a switchroom construction service provider should provide guidance from the planning, design and modelling stages. This will help you ensure that the fabricated switchroom matches your exact requirements. Alternatively, you can purchase a ready-made building which is constructed by evaluating the standard need for the pertinent industry. Regardless of your choice, here are the most critical factors that you should consider before acquiring and installing any electrical switchroom.

Switchroom Portability

Portability is an important aspect to consider when choosing a switchroom. This is particularly beneficial if you operate on different projects at a time. Ideally, a switch room should be modular for optimal portability. Modular switchrooms are built in standard sections or separate units which are put together to create the required space. Consequently, your building will require minimal labour and time to install in the worksite. Moreover, when the pertinent project is completed, the structure can be dismantled, packed up and transported easily. You should also note modular rooms make equipment installation easier because the panels can be removed temporarily. In addition, they have greater capability for expansion in the future.

Structural Strength

Switchrooms should be structurally resilient to provide sufficient protection for the electrical equipment housed within. If the building is not strong enough, the installed items will be prone to damage due to accidental mechanical impact and even general disturbances in the worksite. Therefore, regardless of the material used to build the panels, you should make certain to check the strength rating. In simple terms, ensure that the flooring can support the potential weight which will be exerted. The surface should also have strict deflection tolerances to prevent instability. The wall and roofing should be designed to withstand high wind pressure and ground disturbances or seismic activity.

Fire Protection

There is always a significant risk of fire in any space housing electrical equipment. Therefore, you should make sure that the switchroom is designed to minimise the potential repercussions of such an unfortunate incident. In general, the switchroom should be equipped with advanced fire detection components. These should be connected to a suitable suppression system such as gaseous extinguisher and oxygen reduction. Additionally, the structural panels should be fire-rated; this will be critical in containing the fire and preventing spread.

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