Automation and compliance to advance switchgear manufacturing

By Staff Report July 31, 2024 5:52 pm IST

Piyush Garg, Director of Balaji Switchgears, emphasises the importance of automated technology in improving performance and cost-efficiency in switchgear systems. Automation increases precision and ensures compliance with industry standards, including safety and environmental regulations, while optimising material usage and reducing waste.

What unique features distinguish your company’s switchgear from commanding a maximum market share?

In distribution businesses, it is essential to understand the supply chain flow and ensure a balance between products and services at both ends of the chain. Our role is vital as an authorised distributor for leading global brands. We understand our responsibility and assure 100% correct and professional consultancy, product authenticity, correct certifications, exceptional after-sales support, and transparency in every transaction.

We take immense pride in having the opportunity to serve 9000+ satisfied clients globally every year. Alongside after-sales support, our dedicated team of programming engineers and panel solutions facility enable our customers to meet all their electrical requirements in one location.

How can manufacturing technology improve the performance and cost-efficiency of switchgear systems?

The answer lies in eliminating outdated technology and redundant processes to improve performance and cost-efficiency in today’s world. If machinery is obsolete and operated traditionally with the same labour management methods, a lot of time and resources are wasted. This does not allow for the reduction of errors, and the wastage of raw materials continues. As a result, production efficiency is affected. This concept is relevant to all industries. Businesses need to evolve their technology to stay relevant during competition.

How does automation in the manufacturing process impact the quality of switchgear components?

Automation is the solution for switchgear manufacturing in terms of quality, precision, efficiency and cost. Integrating automated tools into our machinery can help reduce human error, reduce defects and increase reliability. With components like PLC, HMI, SCADA, EcoStruxure software, and other automation tools, the user has the potential to get real-time monitoring and extensive collection of data. It can also enable them to detect downtime earlier. An increased production speed and scalability of automated systems allow them to meet higher demand without compromising quality. Optimised material usage reduces waste and ensures consistent use of high-quality materials. Robotic and automated testing ensures correct assembly and rigorous quality checks under various conditions.

What factors ensure switchgear complies with industry standards and regulations?

Switchgear safety must align with industry standards and regulations. It requires arc flash protection, fault tolerance, and robust insulation. To ensure compliance with standards, IEC, UL, ISI, and ANSI ensure adherence to relevant global and regional guidelines. Switchgear reliability and durability are essential. It demands high-quality materials and rigorous testing for long-term performance.

Thermal management involves effective cooling systems to prevent overheating. The design’s ease of maintenance and operation ensures straightforward inspection, maintenance, and operations.

What considerations are vital when choosing switchgear for industrial applications, especially regarding compliance with industry standards?

The switchgear selection is equally important and requires understanding the application before selection. Based on the application, the necessary compliances are defined. Hence, verify that every switchgear component in the circuit meets specific voltage, current and fault tolerance requirements. This shall ensure a robust electrical system. Apart from compliance for every industry today, there is an impending need for proper e-waste disposal that can help reduce, reuse, recycle and control the carbon footprint on Earth. Schneider Electric offers to use Green Premium products to achieve the agenda.