New machinery is a major investment, and every day it sits unconnected is a day it is not earning its keep. Whether you are adding a single CNC machine, extending a production line or relocating an entire factory floor, the electrical work needs to be planned as carefully as the machinery itself.
Start With the Machine Specification
Before a single cable is pulled, we need to understand exactly what the machine needs: its rated power, full load current, voltage and phase requirements, and how its motors start. Large motors started direct on line draw a heavy current for a moment as they start, while machines fitted with variable speed drives behave differently and may need a specific type of RCD protection.
We then check whether your existing distribution boards and incoming supply can handle the extra load. If they cannot, we plan the upgrade before the machine arrives, not after.
Safe Isolation and Control
Every machine needs a safe means of isolation, so it can be locked off for cleaning, maintenance and repairs. We install lockable isolators beside each machine, clearly labelled and positioned where operators and engineers can reach them.
Cable routes are designed to avoid trip hazards, forklift routes and moving parts, using suitable containment or armoured cable throughout.
Working Around Production
Production rarely stops for an electrical installation, so we work around you. That might mean:
- Running containment and supplies before the machine arrives
- Arranging planned power shutdowns at weekends or between shifts
- Connecting and testing equipment in the evenings
- Working with the machine supplier’s engineers during commissioning
At Cummins Turbo Technologies in Huddersfield, we arranged the power shutdown, installed a new three phase distribution board and supplies to local machinery, upgraded the lighting to suit the new workshop layout, and we continue to support the assembly lines with ongoing maintenance.
Machine Moves and Relocations
When machinery moves, the electrical work comes in two halves: making the old position safe and providing new supplies in the new location. Planned as one job, disconnection, removal of redundant cabling and reconnection can be completed quickly, so the machine is back in production as soon as possible.
Redundant cables left behind are a common cause of confusion and danger, so we remove them or make them safe and clearly label them.
Testing and Certification
Once connected, every new circuit is inspected and tested, and the results are recorded on your certification. Accurate records make future changes faster and give your insurer and auditors the evidence they need.
Why Choose Econ Electrical?
We work with manufacturers, engineering firms and distribution businesses across Yorkshire and the UK, providing machine installations, production line power and complete factory fit outs. We know that downtime costs money, and we plan our work to protect your output. Learn more about our industrial electrical services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the power need to be switched off to connect a new machine?
Usually a short, planned shutdown is needed to connect new circuits to the distribution board. We arrange it at a time that suits your production, such as a weekend or between shifts.
Can you move the power supply when we relocate a machine?
Yes. We make the old position safe, remove redundant cabling and install new supplies at the new location, planned as one job to keep downtime short.
Planning new machinery or a production line change? Contact Econ Electrical to plan the electrical work around your schedule.
