Power delivery used to be good enough, but value has been added with advanced metering, power quality monitoring, and more. Diagnostics and predictive controls estimate when system level equipment may fail to prevent surprise downtime. These are among points discussed in a U.S.-based touring tractor-trailer full of Eaton Corp. power distribution and control assembly technologies.

Control Engineering caught up with the Eaton trailer in Glendale Heights, IL, about halfway through a 23 district, six-month 2007 tour.

“PowerChain Management” treats the power system as a “strategic, integrated asset through its lifecycle” enabling greater reliability, operating cost efficiencies, and risk mitigation.

Specific products onboard the trailer include modular power centers, front-accessible switchgear, and a variety of relays to protect against abnormal conditions.

www.eaton.com