Bespoke panels for critical controls

This meant three panels were needed for power and motor control, automation and control, and monitoring/communications.

The monitoring equipment needed to be installed within an area at risk of flooding, so it was decided to place the panel on a metre-tall frame to reduce the chances of the equipment being damaged by floodwater inundation. To overcome this, Rittal’s engineers designed a custom-sized Ri4Power panel to sit comfortably on the frame.

All three panels had to withstand internal fires and each compartment was fitted with a special fire resistant lining to stop fire spreading from one to another, and a smoke/fire rated venting system. 

In addition, special filters were installed for ventilation, which included a gel that expanded if heat was detected and closed any air gaps.

The power and motor control panel was specially designed in an L-shape to fit neatly within its allocated space. 

The Rittal team also developed a busbar that was designed to accept a mains supply, but which could also accept a temporary generator supply, if needed, for essential loads.