EMC & Circuit Protection
● Safety risks: Circuit protection is vital in preventing electrical overloads, short circuits, and other hazardous conditions. When these components are compromised due to obsolescence, the risk of system failures increases, potentially leading to safety hazards in high-stakes environments like transportation or healthcare.
Strategies to manage component obsolescence
Addressing component obsolescence in circuit protection requires a proactive and strategic approach. Organisations that plan ahead can reduce the risks associated with obsolescence, ensuring the longevity and reliability of their systems.
1. Implement obsolescence management programmes
Developing a structured obsolescence management programme is critical. This programme should monitor the lifecycle of critical components and engage with suppliers to understand product roadmaps. By maintaining a database of all components in use, companies can track which parts are at risk of obsolescence and identify alternatives before they become unavailable.
This proactive approach allows companies to anticipate obsolescence and make informed decisions about whether to redesign systems or stockpile components.
2. Collaborate with suppliers and OEMs Establishing strong relationships with distributors and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) is crucial in managing obsolescence. By engaging in regular communication, companies can stay updated on product lifecycle changes, emerging technologies, and alternative components. Many suppliers provide “last-time buy” offers or suggest compatible replacements when obsolescence is imminent. Early engagement with OEMs through distributors also offers opportunities for co-developing custom solutions tailored to specific needs.
3. Design for flexibility and modularity Designing circuit protection systems with flexibility in mind can minimise the impact of obsolescence. By using modular components or designing systems that can easily accommodate future upgrades, engineers can reduce the need for complete redesigns when parts become obsolete. Standardising components across different products
can also streamline sourcing and reduce the pressure on suppliers. For example, choosing circuit protection devices that have cross-industry applications, such as TVS diodes or standard fuses, increases the likelihood of longer availability and easier sourcing. Similarly, modular fuse holders or adaptable circuit breakers allow for more straightforward replacements and future upgrades.
4. Utilise obsolescence monitoring tools Advanced software tools are available to help companies monitor component lifecycles. These tools track component availability and alert engineers when parts are approaching end-of-life status. They also provide access to databases of potential substitutes and allow engineers to compare the technical specifications of alternative components. This reduces the time and effort required to find replacements and ensures that substitutions meet system requirements without compromising performance or safety.
5. Stockpile critical components For systems with long operational lifespans, stockpiling critical components can be an effective short-term solution. This approach
requires careful forecasting of future needs, as overstocking can lead to unnecessary costs and underutilisation of inventory. However, when done properly, it ensures that replacement components are available for essential repairs and maintenance, even if the parts become obsolete. Buyers can also partner with distributors to place call-off orders, to secure the best possible pricing on a large order quantity with the flexibility to pull in orders if they need to. Component obsolescence in circuit protection is an unavoidable challenge, but it can be managed with foresight and strategic planning. By adopting proactive measures such as establishing obsolescence management programmes, designing flexible systems, and maintaining strong distributor relationships, companies can reduce the risks posed by component obsolescence. In doing so, they can ensure that their circuit protection systems remain robust, reliable, and safe throughout the lifecycle of their products. As technology continues to evolve, those who prioritise obsolescence management will be best positioned to adapt and excel.
www.gdrectifiers.co.uk
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Components in Electronics
September 2024 21
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