The replacement of steel by aluzinc in the manufacture of Shaw Controls’ motor control centres (MCCs) is giving a range of benefits to the company’s customers. “Traditionally we used only steel for our MCCs, which needed to be powder coated in order to protect them from corrosion,” says senior manager of operations, Anderson Kohler. “This made it necessary to follow quite a long process in completing our products – a process which aluzinc can now simplify and speed up.”
Kohler highlights the extended lifespan of aluzinc, which comprises 55% aluminium, 43,5% zinc and 1,5% silicon. Manufacturers of the product guarantee that it will last for about 35 years before any major maintenance is required.
“The powder coating of steel panels complicates the earthing requirement on an MCC, as the paint layer insulates the panel and prevents conductivity,” he continues. For instance, the use of star washers must be strictly enforced among installation staff. Alternatively, certain areas of the MCCs are left unpainted to allow for earth connections. Kohler points out that this does raise the concern that it only takes a small oversight and the earthing will not be fully effective. The use of aluzinc eliminates this issue as there is no longer a paint layer between the earth connection and MCC panel.
There is also the possibility of painted parts being scratched or damaged during transport and installation. When this occurs, it leads to the time consuming task of returning the part to the factory for proper powder coating, further delaying the installation and commissioning process. Indeed, if there is a need to weld again for any reason, then there is a repeat process of grinding and pre-washing before painting again. Kohler highlights that the corrosion-resistant properties of aluzinc allow parts to be kept in stock, ready for quick assembly. He notes that this is not possible with mild steel due to corrosion.
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