Stainless Steel Dockside Distribution Assemblies, 250A, Plug-in

Overview

Distribution assemblies used on docksides are exposed to some of the toughest operating conditions of any products that we supply. The salt laden atmosphere, the exposure to driving rain and the force of crashing waves, all take their toll. In addition, docksides are busy operational areas with cranes and fork lift trucks all adding to the risk of damage to plant and equipment. Temporary distribution equipment is particularly vulnerable to damage.

A recent package of dockside distribution equipment included a quantity of 12 no. 250A, plug-in temporary distribution assemblies as shown in the images alongside.

The incoming connection to the assemblies is via 500A single-pole connectors, which allow the assemblies to be fed from a Dockside Service Unit via single-core flexible cables. Typically cables have a cross section of 240mm², although cables with a smaller cross section could also be utilised in this application. The single-pole connectors supply a 250A 4P main switch with external operating handle. A set of incoming phase indicators is incorporated. The assembly also incorporates a thermostatically controlled panel heater, which helps prevent condensation from forming within the enclosure.

On the distribution side, a total of 4 no. 63A 5P 400V IP67 switched and interlocked sockets and 4 no. 32A 5P 400V IP67 switched and interlocked sockets are fitted. Each socket is protected by a Schneider 4P CBR (NSXm series MCCB with Micrologic 4.1 trip), which provides overcurrent, short-circuit and RCD protection, with adjustable sensitivity and time delay.

The above equipment is incorporated within a purpose built enclosure, which provides protection to IP55. The enclosure is fabricated from grade 316L stainless steel with a painted finish, which will ensure an extended life for the assembly, despite the hostile installation environment. The enclosure is mounted within a heavy duty crash frame, which is fabricated from square tube and has a hot dip galvanized finish. The crash frame incorporates an overhead lifting facility and has fork lift pockets.

Despite the challenging installation environment, it is anticipated that the assemblies will provide service for an extended period (10 to 20 years), thanks to the investment in high specification enclosures and components.