Schneider Electric, a company concerned with the digital transformation of energy management and automation, recently hosted an exclusive event at Tottenham Hotspur’s stadium.
The site, where Schneider Electric’s technology is applied for energy management and efficiency, played host to over 130 Schneider Electric customers.
One of the highlights of the day was a panel discussion which centred on the need to protect critical infrastructure and sites.
With a focus on the journey and benefits of using data to make maintenance decisions – from routine to predictive and preventative – the panel discussed how to minimise disruption at airports, hospitals, and other locations of critical infrastructure.
During the discussion, Edward Payne, Chief Engineer, Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, noted, “Some of our switchgear dates back to the 1960s, and anywhere up to [the] 2020s.
“We’ve got lots of equipment from multiple suppliers, different specifications, and spare part requirements.
“This isn’t the most efficient way to manage our activities so we’re looking at how to digitalise our estate to get a clearer picture of where to invest maintenance efforts.
“This will allow us to proactively manage assets, improve spare parts planning, and ensure a smoother running of the site’s electrical operation. For us, keeping the system resilient is key as, ultimately, it’s patients at the end.”
David Pownall, Schneider Electric’s VP Power Systems UK & Ireland, adds, “At Schneider Electric, we are working to see a more electric and more digital future.
“These technologies will be crucial if we’re to reach our decarbonisation goals. However, developing tech solutions and upgrading existing systems only works if we properly maintain the assets.
“The traditional model of annual maintenance can prove costly and time consuming. However, drastically shifting our approach to maintenance to be more proactive and predictive can change the game.
“We’re in control and develop fixes to problems before they develop to avoid costly downtime. We can reach a point where the switchgear tells us it needs maintenance.
“As such, we manage the asset effectively, allowing it to run efficiently [and ensuring] simple repairs or changes to environment can be implemented to prevent costly upgrades or disruption due to equipment failure.”
Attendees were able to see a variety of Schneider Electric products in action, including:
· Ringmaster AirSeT – a medium-voltage switchgear
· GenieEVO – a modular medium switchgear
· FeederSeT CB Outdoor LV Switchgear – a low-voltage switchgear
In addition to these products, a selection of BESS Solutions, automation, and switchgear components were on display.
For more from Schneider Electric, click here.