Process of Building Control Panels

Control panel builders are in constant change mode, from complying to new standards, being up to date on quality requirements, being aware of new & obsolete components, and keeping delivery commitments.  

More than a “Planning & Execute Strategy”, control panel builders are involved in each phase of the process. When “Build of Materials” (BOM) are received, panel builders review the product selection and start a process that includes procuring components. The results fall into several categories such as; Product Discontinuation, Long lead time, Price changes, etc.

Example product discontinuance notice;

Often this hurdle is because the BOM may duplicate a past solution, designed and engineered a few years ago or in another country. That raises a flag to confirm all components are still available, and meet USA specifications, creating an additional investigation of universal product data documentation. If some of the items are obsolete, vendor support may not be available, so collaboration between the panel builder and the design firm is essential.

Faster and efficient BOM evaluation and collaboration between stakeholders

Once the BOM components are evaluated, confirming electrical parts, diagrams, schematics, client notes for a building the solution gets assessed. The panel builder becomes an input on verification, updating, and changes throughout the building processe.

For example; PLC Panel controller package, has various components, different sizes, most likely a NEMA rated enclosure, and requires a 120VAC connection. Component Manufacturer, Enclosure Type, Communication Options, and Temperature Measurement are just a few items to be looked at.

Control panel builders will source and order the products, and an if item is not available locates a product replacement, however this may delay the final build. Many different components go into a control panel, and assembling documentation for changes extends the client deadlines.  

Product Change Notifications (PCN) are normally used to communicate changes such as factory location, raw material specifications, software updates, process or quality improvements and functionality differences.

End of Life (EOL) or Product Discontinuation Notifications (PDN) on the other hand will be sent out to confirm that a part is going to be made obsolete. 

Collaboration

Many of the panel builders that I work with find that communicating with design engineers have barriers. And when a panel builder finds issues such as product discontinuance, availability, or price increases, escalating changes and approvals can delay a project.

Data Portal

The strongest solution I have seen is the EPLAN Data Portal that has numerous leading component manufacturers that provide online access to commercial, technical, process-oriented and corresponding graphics data. A panel builder can access a large database of qualified parts data online. 

Example of EPLAN manufactures in the data portal

An EPLAN user has access to the Data Portal and can enter parts, download all specs, drawings, right into the design and if a part changes a notification is sent each time the user logs in. Searching for a replacement is an easy search by using multiple criteria’s. The panel builder then sends the documentation back to the client and design team for approval.

The panel can be built with confidence that all components have been evaluated

Recommendation:

Evaluate the variables at the start of the project with EPLAN. "Online access from numerous component manufacturers".  

Rittal Invites you to learn more at: www.Rittal.com