Commercial corrosion and other stuff

[tonype]

Extensive corrosion to switch gear... it this generally an automatic replacement?

Also, service to switch gear from street - threaded connection just penetrates enclosure.

Any advice would be appreciated

 

[infinity]

IMO you need to be careful when calling something "extensive corrosion", does the corrosion make the installation less safe or is just a cosmetic thing because it's old? Yes there should be locknuts on that raceway entering the enclosure.

 

[tonype]

IMO you need to be careful when calling something "extensive corrosion", does the corrosion make the installation less safe or is just a cosmetic thing because it's old? Yes there should be locknuts on that raceway entering the enclosure.

Yeah... that is my quandary... I was not going to open up the equipment (beyond my scope of assessment). Just gunna recommend client hire a licensed electrical contractor to perform detailed assessment inside.

Another photo attached... steel has thickened at the top from the corrosion process

 

[JFletcher]

Corrosion of the panel case isnt nearly as big a deal as corrosion of EGC lug, knife/fork mechanism, terminations, etc. Years ago I threw a 208V knife/fork non-fused disco for a 10 ton AC unit. When I removed the deadfront, I realize the center phase knife/fork had corroded together, and ripped loose the corroded lugs from the frame. Another 1/16th" and it would have thrown that conductor into the deadfront and probably blown up in my face.

Corrosion can also greatly increase resistance at terminations causing heat and fire. Yes, I would recommend an EC give the switch gear an inspection/evaluation.