Do not start with the plug
The machine data, starting characteristics, duty, control method and manufacturer's protective requirements matter before a cable or outlet is selected. A photograph of the data plate is useful, but the complete installation information is better.
Assess the site supply
The existing distribution board, protective device coordination, available capacity, cable route, environmental conditions and local isolation all affect whether the proposed supply is suitable.
- Manufacturer and exact model
- Rated voltage, current and phase
- Starting current or drive information
- Proposed location and route distance
- Operating pattern and critical downtime
Coordinate delivery and isolation
Confirm when the equipment arrives, who positions and commissions it, what electrical work can be completed beforehand and when the relevant part of the site can be safely isolated.
Record the change
After installation, testing, labels, updated circuit information and the appropriate electrical certificate should be retained with machine and site records.
When specialist support is also needed
The fixed electrical supply and isolation may be one workstream. Machine internals, programming, guarding and process commissioning can remain with the manufacturer or specialist engineer; define that boundary before site work begins.
Do not work on live electrical equipment. If there is smoke, fire, a burning smell or immediate danger, keep clear, isolate only if safe and contact the emergency services where appropriate.