A complete mechanical and electrical upgrade of a 3.3 kV power centre for Gypsum customer.

OVERVIEW

Originally supplied by Allenwest, the client’s 3.3 kV KF2VG power centre required a complete overhaul to restore safety, improve performance, and ensure long‑term reliability.

Used to provide power for essential underground mining equipment, including ventilation fans, water pumps and conveyors, the power centre needed more than routine maintenance. Ageing components had to be replaced, protection and control systems modernised and the unit mechanically refurbished to extend its operational life.

SOLUTION

Following an initial engineering assessment and redesign by Allenwest, the power centre was transferred to the Baldwin & Francis facility in Sheffield, where our specialist team carried out the complete mechanical and electrical upgrade.

The unit was stripped internally and externally, thoroughly cleaned and repainted, while the existing isolator was fully serviced and returned to operational condition.

Working with Allenwest, we incorporated a series of upgrades designed to improve the power centre’s performance, protection and usability. The existing air-break contactors were replaced with an Allenwest Vacutac vacuum circuit breaker unit, with the original drive arrangement converted to a dual-drive system, incorporating an Allenwest AWT31 protection relay for each outlet.

To give operators better visibility of the equipment’s operational health, the left-hand door was also machined to accommodate a remote protection relay display.

Low insulation resistance identified within the existing sockets meant these also required replacement. A Victor TYPE AFA33A 500 A, 3.3 kV air-filled adaptor was installed on the incomer, together with Victor flameproof bolted sockets on the outgoing connections.

Alongside the physical refurbishment, the KF2VG configuration underwent a full electrical redesign, with updated engineering drawings produced to reflect the changes and support future maintenance.

Once the refurbishment was complete, the power centre underwent comprehensive testing at our Sheffield facility, including a client-attended Factory Acceptance Test (FAT), before Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) following installation.

RESULT

The completed refurbishment returned a fully upgraded and modernised power centre to the client, extending the operational life of a proven piece of equipment while enhancing its performance and protection.

The conversion to a dual-drive system increased the unit’s available power capacity, while modern protection and control equipment provides greater visibility and control. Replacement sockets addressed the insulation issues identified during the assessment, and the complete mechanical overhaul restored the condition of the equipment.

Following the successful FAT and return to site, the client was impressed with the quality and performance of the refurbished power centre and has since sent a second unit for the same refurbishment programme.

Backed by a 10-year guarantee on the equipment supplied and ongoing after-sales support, the project provides the client with a reliable solution designed to support continued operation for years to come.

Replacing ageing electrical equipment isn’t always necessary. With the right engineering expertise, proven assets can be refurbished and upgraded to meet changing operational requirements.

Contact our team for more information.