Custom Solution for Powering Crane Systems

Challenge
Highly Available Energy Supply Under Complex Conditions

A highly available power supply system was required for an industrial crane installation to ensure reliable operation even during maintenance and servicing work. The main challenge was that power is supplied via two separate busbar systems located on the left- and right-hand sides of the installation.
In addition, the existing connection cables could neither be modified nor relocated. As a result, the entire control cabinet design had to be precisely adapted to the existing conditions. Alongside the technical requirements, particular emphasis was placed on maximum operational reliability, precise installation and seamless integration into the existing infrastructure.

Solution
Customized Switchgear Solution for Maximum Operational Reliability

gefeba developed a custom-built control cabinet solution with an integrated power supply switch capable of handling currents up to 1,600 A. The system enables targeted switching between two independent power supply systems and ensures that the crane system can continue to operate even while work is being performed on one of the power supply sides. To implement this, a custom busbar system—including insulators and connectors—was developed. The design was tailored with millimeter precision to the existing connection conditions and engineered for installation at existing connection points. Particular attention was paid to the safety concept. Switching is performed via a selector switch with three defined positions: System A, neutral position, and System B. The required neutral position reliably prevents simultaneous connection of both systems and protects the facility from back voltages and unwanted overlap in the power supply.

Result
Greater Flexibility and Availability in Crane Operations

The result is a robust, safe power supply solution for industrial crane operations that is precisely tailored to the existing infrastructure. The new switchgear increases flexibility during maintenance and service work while also contributing to higher plant availability. Precise manufacturing, strict adherence to safety standards, and a custom-designed construction have resulted in a durable, custom solution that reliably meets the demands of daily steel mill operations. The successful implementation underscores gefeba’s expertise in developing custom switchgear and special designs for demanding industrial applications.

Project Type
Custom Control Cabinet Solution / Power Supply
Customer
ArcelorMittal Ruhrort
Application
Crane system at the steel mill
Industry
Steel Industry
Solution
System Switch for Two Power Supply Systems
Rated Current
1600 A Feed-in Switch
Services
Engineering, Design, Manufacturing, and Assembly
Distinctive Feature
Adjustment to the existing system with millimeter precision
Rail System
Custom design with insulators
Security Plan
System A / Reset / System B
Added value
Greater availability and maintenance flexibility

Why Customers
Choose to Work with Us

We develop customized solutions—from analysis through the engineering phase to commissioning and support. Our focus is on maximum functionality, on-time delivery, and durability.

Our project work is supported by collaborations with leading technology partners such as Siemens, Rittal, B&R, and Proxmox, which provide the technological foundation for our project results and help expand them.

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