Equipment and machines that depend on sophisticated motorized components can be effectively managed using a centralized motor control panel. Suitable for industrial, commercial, and even residential applications, these versatile panels safeguard the motor controls, drives, switches, overload relays, and transformers required to distribute power to electric motors efficiently.
OSCO specializes in designing and implementing motor control panels across multiple industries, including material handling, oil & gas, recycling, and manufacturing. And based on your specifications and goals, we can create and install panels that deliver superior performance, reliability, and safety.
Understanding Motor Control Panels
As today’s machines and equipment become more advanced, the motors that run them require more complex controls to ensure dependable operation. Engines not only deliver power but can also provide essential secondary features, including heating and cooling.
Motor control panels are tasked with managing the starting and stopping of an electric motor. Housed within a secure enclosure, electrical parts are protected from weather exposure, fire, and potential damage. Panels may be wall or floor-mounted, manage single or multiple motors, accommodate a single or 3-phase power supply, and be configured for low or high-voltage use. The motor type and its specific job dictate the panel type and size.
These panels are available in automated or manual designs, with the manual option best suited for residential use. Automated panels use a series of switches to power on/off one or more motors. In addition to starting and stopping the motor, the control panel can also be designed to regulate machine speed, select directional movement (forward/reverse/up/down), control torque, and protect against an overload.
Integrated motor control panels are an efficient and cost-effective solution for managing and distributing power throughout a facility, saving businesses time and money.
Motor Control Panel Types
The variety of motor control panel types differs based on application and industry, but they all have the same goal, delivering power and control to electric motors. Whether you’re operating a water treatment system, a mechanical scissor lift, or assembling cars on the factory floor, the motor control panel is the power behind the machines.
Here are some examples of the motor control panels that OSCO can implement for your business:
- Starter Panels: A broad category of panels that house the starter and related controls and may include low and high-voltage formats.
- Distribution Panels: These panels can seamlessly distribute power to multiple motors.
- Motor Control Centers: These advanced units provide control and power for multiple motors from a single source. Each controller in a control center can be configured independently, giving you maximum control and flexibility.
- Combination Starter Panels: This dual-function panel combines the functions of a Starter and Distribution panel in a single unit.
OSCO Spotlight: Portable Control
When it comes to specialized control solutions, OSCO continues to demonstrate deep-domain expertise. And even though motor control panels are typically wall or floor-mounted, when a client presented a unique requirement for a compact and portable solution, we delivered! By constructing a custom-shaped enclosure with dual sides, the OSCO team mounted the panel directly on the machine. This innovative solution is another example of what you can expect when you partner with OSCO!
OSCO: Helping You Take Control
Regardless of your industry, reach out to OSCO Controls to ensure you select the best motor control panel for your application. There are many considerations regarding panel design, and working with our engineers and designers translates to a successful project. Whether you have a legacy operation or you’re starting a new business venture, you can trust OSCO to provide leadership and expertise throughout your project and beyond. Contact us for a free quote today, and let’s start the conversation!