Motor control centers (MCCs) have been the backbone of many industries since their early adoption in the 1950s. Originally pioneered by the automobile industry, these centers have become increasingly complex and essential for modern operations. Although MCCs often reside directly on factory floors, there are significant benefits to housing them within specialized enclosures. This article will delve into the historical context, functionality, and evolving applications of MCCs and focus on why shipping containers make ideal enclosures for them.
The inception of MCCs can be traced back to the 1950s when the automobile industry started using them to manage a large number of electric motors used in manufacturing processes. Fast-forward to today, MCCs are ubiquitous in many sectors, including mining, aerospace, military operations, and even emerging industries like solar crypto.
Understanding MCCs
Motor control center is an assembly of compartments, often referred to as "buckets," used to control electric motors in a centralized location. These buckets house a variety of elements like motor starters, circuit breakers, and programmable controllers. In essence, MCCs are the nerve centers that distribute electrical power and control to various types of machinery, predominantly motors.
Three Main Types of Loads
Inductive Loads: These are your motors, which contribute to almost 70-80% of power consumption in the United States. They essentially convert electrical energy to mechanical energy.
Resistive Loads: These are heaters and light bulbs that offer resistance to the electric current.
Capacitive Loads: These are your typical capacitors used in various electronic configurations.
MCC Buckets
An MCC will contain a main bucket that protects everything with a primary circuit breaker. Moreover, it's not uncommon for MCCs to feature hybrid buckets, equipped with an industrial computer processor running discrete processes.
Why Motor Control Center Enclosures?
While there are some use-cases where an MCC could function adequately without an enclosure, most real-world applications benefit from additional layers of protection. Enclosures are essential, especially for MCCs operating in environments susceptible to dust, extreme temperatures, or corrosive elements. They ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your MCC, thereby enhancing ROI.
Shipping Container: A Modern Solution
Protection from Elements
Shipping container enclosures offer a robust solution for protecting MCCs from various environmental hazards. Customizable ventilation and air conditioning can easily be integrated to regulate temperature and manage dust, extending the life of your MCC.
Simplified Monitoring and Maintenance
The unique architecture of shipping containers allows for quick installation and easy access for regular maintenance. Custom cable pass-throughs can be designed to suit the specific needs of your installation. In essence, shipping containers offer unparalleled convenience in MCC monitoring and upkeep.
Modularity and Scalability
Shipping containers are inherently modular, allowing for easy relocation and scaling. If your operations grow, adding more units is relatively straightforward. This feature is particularly beneficial for industries like mining and military operations where flexibility is key.
Customizations to Meet Specific Needs
One of the advantages of using shipping containers as MCC enclosures is the ability to customize them according to your operational requirements. From adding personnel doors for easy access to installing advanced control systems, the possibilities are endless.
The IndustLabs Advantage
When it comes to durable and efficient MCC enclosures, IndustLabs stands out with our innovative designs and custom solutions. We pay close attention to the specific needs of our clients, offering not just products but complete solutions that encompass everything from initial design to long-term maintenance.
Conclusion
Shipping containers offer a versatile, durable, and efficient solution for housing Motor Control Centers. Their modular nature allows for easy scalability, while their robust construction ensures long-lasting performance. Given the critical role MCCs play in modern industrial operations, investing in a shipping container enclosure is not just a wise decision but an essential one. Contact Us for your free no obligation quote