Overview
A Motor Control Center (MCC) is a centralized assembly of motor starters, protection devices, drives and control equipment used to distribute and manage electric motors across industrial sites. MCCs are modular, containing cubicles with breakers, contactors, soft starters or VFDs mounted on common busbars, enabling organized power distribution, easier maintenance and future expansions for factories, plants and heavy equipment installations.
FAQ
How do I size an MCC for my plant?
Match the MCC's bus ampacity, short-circuit rating and feeder capacity to the combined motor loads and utility characteristics. Account for starting currents, VFDs, future growth and coordination with upstream protection.
What should I inspect when buying a used MCC?
Check busbar condition, breaker and starter functionality, wiring, signs of overheating, corrosion, and vendor documentation. Request insulation and continuity tests, and verify serial numbers, drawings and modification records.
What are shipping and handling considerations?
MCCs are heavy and tall—plan for crating, secure lifting points, transport permits and route clearances. Protect against moisture and vibration; consider partial disassembly of doors or sections and reassembly at site.
What site preparation is required before installation?
Prepare a level, vibration-free foundation with adequate clearance, grounding system, conduit/wiring paths, ventilation and cooling. Coordinate utility disconnects and lockout/tagout procedures for safe hookup.
What routine maintenance does an MCC need?
Perform quarterly visual checks, thermal imaging, tighten connections, exercise breakers/starters, clean dust, and do annual insulation and functional testing. Keep spare fuses, contactors and breakers on hand.
How important is documentation and spare parts availability?
Essential. Obtain wiring diagrams, test records, parts lists and firmware versions. Verify availability of replacement breakers, starters and control modules to minimize downtime.
