There is an argument to be made that electrical contractors are unsung heroes in commercial, industrial, and mechanical settings. Their work is a bit behind the scenes & much of their workforce is often nameless. However, an electrical contractor is pivotal in one important place — identifying room for improvement in a facility.
It should surprise no one that commercial/industrial/mechanical settings are major operations that have many moving parts, both figuratively & literally. These machinations are mostly ‘out-of-site, out-of-mind’ to those who own/run them. Unfortunately, the common refrain of ignorance toward such an integral part of how things work can be detrimental in the long run. Electrical contractors are critical in keeping an operation running smoothly. Where they find the biggest difficulties is making sure top brass know the ins and outs of their facility.
For starters, the rise of automation is something that is changing our world everyday. Beyond the philosophical discussions it spurs, automation is a proven way to increase efficiency and production while also reducing costs. Systems integration changes the dynamic of how a facility runs for one reason — everything is streamlined. Automation becomes critical to this integration in that it can be programmed to adapt. Specific parameters can be input by personnel across a number of connected systems. Automation allows for these parameters to adapt when certain thresholds are crossed. This makes it easier to monitor multiple systems at once.
With respect to building automation systems (BAS), it should be noted that connection between systems is internet based. The continual growth of IoT (the internet of things), means that facilities are getting ‘smarter’ & making them easier to run. This can sometimes prove to be challenging for facilities that are older and rely on what might be called antiquated technology. A simple retrofit may not be possible. This may mean a full replacement system design, which can mean a hefty upfront investment.
One more thing to note about ‘smart’ buildings & IoT is that since an internet-based network is critical to keeping things running correctly, network security needs to be top-of-mind from the start.
It is important that the scope and magnitude of commercial/industrial/mechanical electrical work is understood for what it is. Specifically, it should be understood that large-scale lighting & power distribution systems aren’t comparable to home electrical systems. Larger facilities often need major upgrades to electrical infrastructure that require a very broad knowledge & are underscored by an understanding of contemporary best practices & technology.
Trying to maintain an antiquated electrical system and other processes in perpetuity not only doesn’t make sense, it is dangerous.
Finally, electrical contractors will tell you that few things can be of benefit to a client than experience. Coupled with this experience is advice on calling/asking for assistance as early as possible. If a cursory look at a facility’s electrical system is of concern to someone without any electrical background, it is likely that the system is probably in rough condition. Then again, if an operation keen on collecting & analyzing data observes a lack of efficiency in their current set-up, procuring a trusted electrical contractor to help get things on track is a major step forward.
CCI Culberson Engineering & Construction has spent the last two decades helping facilities work their best from the ground up. Our diverse & top-tier service allow us to provide trustworthy assessments of your facility’s efficiency, as well as provide options for how best to address your concerns in the present & the future. Connect with our team today.
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