MCC motor control panel
Kesher Automation’s Motor Control Centre Panel In many commercial and industrial applications, quite a few electric motors are required, and it is often desirable to control some or all of the motors from a central location. The apparatus designed for this function is the motor control center (MCC).
A motor control center (MCC) is an assembly to control some or all electric motors in a central location. It consists of multiple enclosed sections having a common power bus and with each section containing a combination starter, which in turn consists of motor starter, fuses or circuit breaker, and power disconnect. A motor control center can also include push buttons, indicator lights, variable-frequency drives, programmable logic controllers, and metering equipment. It may be combined with the electrical service entrance for the building.
MCCs are used in a wide variety of Applications :
- Industrial : MCCs are commonly used in industrial settings to control motors that power machinery and equipment.
- Commercial : MCCs are also used in commercial settings, such as hotels, hospitals, and office buildings, to control motors that power HVAC systems, elevators, and other equipment.
- Residential : MCCs are less common in residential settings, but they can be used to control motors that power pool pumps, well pumps, and other equipment.
MCCs offer a number of Advantages :
- Centralized control : MCCs allow for centralized control of motors, which can make it easier to manage and troubleshoot problems.
- Safety : MCCs are designed to be safe and reliable, and they can help to prevent electrical fires and other accidents.
- Flexibility : MCCs can be customized to meet the specific needs of a particular application.
- Cost-effectiveness : MCCs can be a cost-effective way to control electric motors, especially in large or complex applications.
Motor control centers are simply physical groupings of combination starters in one assembly. They can be used to control motors using a variety of methods, including direct online (DOL) and star delta.
DOL (Direct Online) is the simplest and most economical method of starting a motor. It involves connecting the motor directly to the line voltage. This method is often used for small motors that do not require a lot of torque. However, it can cause high inrush currents, which can damage the motor or the electrical system.
Star delta (FASD, Heavy Duty) starting is a more complex method of starting a motor. It involves connecting the motor in star configuration at first, which reduces the voltage applied to the motor. This helps to reduce the inrush current. After a few seconds, the motor is switched to delta configuration, which applies full voltage to the motor. This method is often used for larger motors that require a lot of torque.
FASD stands for Full-Automatic Star-Delta. It is a type of star delta starter that automatically switches the motor from star to delta configuration after a preset time. This helps to protect the motor from damage and to ensure that the motor reaches its full speed quickly.
Heavy duty star delta starters are designed for use with large motors that require a lot of torque. They typically have larger contactors and fuses than standard star delta starters. This helps to ensure that the starter can handle the high currents that are generated when the motor starts.
The type of motor control method that is used will depend on the specific application. For example, DOL is often used for small motors that do not require a lot of torque, while star delta starting is often used for larger motors that require a lot of torque.