06
Mar
MSSB

Smart Mechanical Services Switchboards (MSSB)

Posted on by evolv

The benefits of Smart MSSBs far outweigh the potential risks, but we’re caught in an industry with silo contracting that is limiting clients from enjoying the benefit of modern technology.

I presented on this topic at ARBS in 2022 in Melbourne with some terrific feedback, which I have summarised below.

What is a Smart MSSB?

A Smart MSSB is our terminology that utilises a touchscreen display to control and monitor plant from the associated MSSB, in lieu of traditional rotary switches and panel lights,

This technology allows users to start a system, rather than a motor, avoiding the risk of starting a pump against closed valves, or a fan against closed dampers. It also allows for full automated operation of the system manually started via the touchscreen. E.g. the pump can control the pressure requirements, or the AHU manual request could start temperature controls as well.

With facility managers and service providers often juggling the management of multiple buildings at once, this level of advance control and monitoring allows the building operators to know exactly what plant has been overridden on the BMS, and supports to diagnosing any issues onsite.

Figure 1 – Traditional MSSB with rotary switches and Lights

 

Figure 2 – one of our Smart MSSB touchscreen views

 

Figure 3 – Ability to access graphics for greater diagnostics in the field

Key benefits for the facility managers:

  • Start a system, rather than a motor
  • Remotely manage plant under manual control
  • Field access to the BMS
  • Safer operation of equipment

Key benefits for tenants/occupants:

  • Less frustration with plant manually controlled
  • Improved remote engineering/support

Construction Benefits:

  • Faster Design and Build times
  • Reduce MSSB Space
  • Local Touchscreen for Commissioning Activities
  • Typically ~ cost neutral

We believe the use of the Evolv Smart MSSBs is in the best interest of building owners, facility managers, and service providers, and our feedback through projects to date certainly supports the technology.

Evolv Building Technologies are not only delivering Smart MSSB for their projects under delivery but are manufacturing switchboards direct for other installers. Talk to us about how we can provide a Smart MSSB solution for your next project.