Influence of Dust on Aging

Deposit on grease of mechanisms (device and chassis)

Change in color and texture of greases

• Premature wear of mechanisms because dust mixed with grease can be abrasive.

• Increase in mechanical friction and freezing of moving parts

• Possibility of device not moving on chassis

• Possibility of device non-opening or non-closing

Deposit on grease of clusters

Change in color and texture of greases

• Increase in racking forces exerted.

• Increased contact resistance and temperature rise

Deposit on displays

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Screen data not legible

Deposit on insulation

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• Reduced insulation resistance (depends on type of dust)

• This phenomenon is worsened by the presence of humidity.

Deposit on device contacts

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Increased contact resistance and temperature rise

Low level

Quantity of dust generally deposited on and around devices in commercial buildings and on standard industrial premises

• Implement the Intermediate program.

• Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust deposits.

Switchboard with standard IP

Moderate level

Quantity of dust deposited on and around devices inside switchboards equipped with filters or a ventilated IP54 enclosure, and installed in dusty environments (for example, cement works, grain mills, incineration installations, plastic and steel mills, and mines)

Carry out more frequent periodic cleaning.

Make sure that the switchboard remains closed.

High level

Quantity of dust deposited on and around devices inside switchboards without filters or without ventilated IP54 enclosure, and installed in dusty environments (for example, cement works, grain mills, incineration installations, plastic and steel mills, and mines)

Carry out more frequent periodic cleaning.

It is mandatory to install the switchgear in special equipment offering protection against dust.