Optimizing capital costs in power-distribution upgrades

As capacity improvements in North American paper mills are on the increase, so too is the need to increase source megavoltamperes and interrupting ratings of main power-distribution switchgear. In addition, today's energy crisis will be resolved in part by new generation, some installed onsite at North American paper mills. This combination of higher source megavoltamperes and increased capacity will result in overdutied power-distribution equipment in existing mills. Engineers will continue to be faced with the decision of upgrade or replace existing switchgear. Although the lure of purchasing and installing new equipment is compelling, it can often be the worse possible choice in terms of lost production and mill profitability. Although not all vintage switchgear is created equal, there are several ways to extend the operational life of existing equipment with retrofit or replacement breakers. Mill engineering and management should investigate available switchgear upgrade alternatives carefully before electing to dispose of existing equipment and replace it with new.