Manufacturing Equipment Installs Done Right
Upgrading machinery and other equipment is an important part of your business’s growth. New systems improve your efficiency and profitability, so it is in your company’s interest to ensure new machines are installed as smoothly as possible.
Kraun has installed many commercial machines, from micro-CNC mills in schools to complete assembly lines in factories. With that experience, we wanted to share important considerations for your next machine purchase, including how to have an efficient electrical install.
Picking the correct machine
One of the easiest ways to save time and money and reduce installation problems is to purchase an ESA-approved machine. The machine should have a CSA, UL, or other approved safety marking at the time of purchase.
Businesses typically purchase machinery from abroad to find the most affordable option. However, we have found that the old saying is true: “You get what you pay for.” About 30-40% of the installations we are hired for are unapproved machines, typically from abroad.
Licensed electrical contractors cannot install new machinery without the appropriate safety approvals. For these machines without safety markings, additional work must be completed to ensure all electrical components comply with code before they are approved by an engineer. Only then can it be installed.
Licensed electrical contractors cannot install new machinery without the appropriate safety approvals. For these machines without safety markings, additional work must be completed to ensure all electrical components comply with code before they are approved by an engineer. Only then can it be installed.
Another consideration is ensuring your workplace can power the new machinery. The best way to be certain is to consult the supplier to understand the required power requirements.
A new machine may require an upgraded electrical service or panel if you have a single-phase system (typically found in small businesses). For larger commercial and industrial businesses with three-phase systems, you may need a step-up transformer if your existing system cannot provide enough power to the machine.
Although not directly related to power needs, it is essential to consider the service accessibility when “setting” (situating) the machine. For example, a machine set with its electrical components right next to a wall takes more time and effort to set up, service, and upgrade. Although it is a seemingly simple consideration, this is another common issue we encounter.
Each of these added tasks, setbacks, and hurdles increases the overall cost of the installation, which lengthens the payback period for the new machine. Although finding the lowest-cost option and installing as quickly as possible is appealing, time and money can be saved by choosing a machine that better fits your workplace and is strategically set up.
Commercial and industrial machinery installation
After a millwright has set an ESA-approved machine, a licensed electrical contractor will add a circuit to your system and run it to the new machine. The scale and cost of each job can vary widely depending on the machine’s size, complexity, and distance from your electrical system.
After completing the installation, we offer a troubleshooting service where our specialized commercial electricians can resolve any issues or emergencies. We back this service with the guarantee that we will arrive within three hours (for electrical emergencies), or your first two hours of service are free!
If you want to purchase a new piece of equipment for your business and would like quality service in its installation, don’t hesitate to contact us by phone, email or through the form on this page. We look forward to getting started!
