The evolution of electrical services: the journey to condition monitoring

Gabriel Arce discusses how the shift from traditional reactive maintenance to condition monitoring marks a significant milestone in the evolution of electrical services

In the ever-evolving landscape of electrical services, the journey towards condition monitoring represents a significant leap forward. Today, customers face challenges such as ageing workforce and infrastructure, rising cost of energy and operation, and lack of transparency to the condition of key building systems. Dealing with these challenges will require a transformation driven by the need for enhanced reliability, efficiency, and safety in electrical distribution systems, with increased automation filling the gap created by leaner staffing levels. Let’s explore how this journey has unfolded and what it means for the future of electrical services.

The traditional approach

Traditionally, electrical services relied heavily on reactive maintenance. This approach meant that issues were addressed only after they had caused disruptions or outages, an approach commonly called ‘run to failure’. While this method was simple and straightforward, it often led to unexpected downtimes, costly repairs, and safety hazards. The lack of real-time data made it challenging to predict and prevent potential problems.

The shift to preventive maintenance

As technology advanced, the industry began to shift towards preventive maintenance. This approach involved regular inspections and scheduled maintenance activities to prevent failures before they occurred. While preventive maintenance reduced the frequency of unexpected breakdowns, it relied solely on technician site visits and still lacked the precision needed to optimise performance and extend the lifespan of electrical equipment.

The rise of condition monitoring

The advent of digital technologies and the Internet of Things (IoT) has paved the way for condition monitoring. This innovative approach leverages real-time data from sensors and advanced analytics to monitor the health and performance of electrical equipment continuously. Here’s how condition monitoring is revolutionising electrical services:

1. Real-Time Data Collection: Sensors installed on electrical equipment collect data on various parameters such as temperature, vibration, power quality, and electrical load. This data is transmitted in real-time to a central monitoring system.

2. Advanced Analytics: The collected data is analysed using sophisticated algorithms to detect anomalies and predict potential failures. This predictive capability allows for timely interventions, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

3. Enhanced Reliability: By continuously monitoring the condition of electrical equipment, maintenance can be performed based on actual needs rather than fixed schedules. This approach ensures that equipment is serviced only when necessary, enhancing reliability and reducing maintenance costs.

4. Improved Safety: Condition monitoring helps identify potential safety hazards before they escalate into serious issues. For example, detecting overheating in electrical components can prevent fires and other dangerous situations.

5. Extended Equipment Lifespan: Regular monitoring and timely maintenance help extend the lifespan of electrical equipment. This not only reduces replacement costs but also contributes to sustainability by minimising waste.

The future of electrical services

The journey towards condition monitoring is just the beginning. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more advanced solutions that will further enhance the efficiency, reliability and cost-effectiveness of electrical services. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) will enable even more accurate predictions and smarter maintenance strategies.

In conclusion, the shift from traditional reactive maintenance to condition monitoring marks a significant milestone in the evolution of electrical services. By embracing these advanced technologies, the industry is poised to achieve unprecedented levels of reliability, safety, and efficiency. As we look to the future, the continued innovation in condition monitoring will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of electrical services.

Gabriel Arce is Portfolio Manager – Digital Electrical Services for the Buildings business at Siemens Smart Infrastructure USA.