In the Houston industrial construction industry, not all electrical work is created equal. Because of the unique demands of heavy machinery and complex procedures, working with a specialized team of subcontractors for your industrial construction project in Houston is essential. Understanding the key differences between industrial electrical subcontractors and commercial electrical subcontractors can be the biggest indicator of project success or failure.
Understanding Commercial and Industrial Electrical Subcontractor Specialization
While it might seem like the only difference between the two types of subcontractor roles is simply the location of the space, the truth is that the power needed to support these projects is typically the primary difference. Both types of electrical support roles require highly unique skillsets to achieve the optimal results for your construction project.
Commercial Electrical Subcontractors
When it comes to construction projects in everyday spaces, these are where commercial electrical subcontractors become key players. This could be things such as:
- Schools
- Strip malls
- Restaurants
- Office buildings
- Apartment complexes
In terms of electrical specialty, the biggest difference between the two categories of electrical subcontractors is the voltage specifications for their projects. Commercial building projects typically require a significantly lower voltage electrical system compared to industrial electrical projects in Houston. The goal of commercial electrical projects always comes down to safety and efficiency. This is because the majority of these developments are environments designed specifically for humans to occupy for large amounts of time. Because of this, seamless integration and easy-to-use designs are the most important goals.
Some of the most common tasks commercial subcontractors might take on for these projects include the installation of lighting systems. This could include both basic systems and complex, modern technology that offer multiple customization options like dimming or timers. Planning and installing outlets and switches is also a vital task that often dictates some key elements in office layouts. Lastly, commercial electrical subcontractors can help set your low-voltage systems to be able to support a myriad of data, security, and alarms for the building’s fire safety system.
Industrial Electrical Subcontractors
For high-stakes industrial construction projects in Houston, a specific skill level is required – because of this, industrial electrical subcontractors are a non-negotiable. In these systems, electricity doesn’t just provide comfort and functionality; it also powers fast-paced, unrelenting production procedures for essential industries. Electrical systems are needed for nearly every type of industrial space, but primarily:
- Manufacturing plants
- Refineries
- Water treatment facilities
- Data center construction
- Power generation stations
Industrial electrical subcontractors must be able to provide power systems that operate consistently and deliver reliable performance quality. These systems require immensely high-voltage distribution systems that utilize thousands of volts of power. This requires an expert level of knowledge to be able to safely and efficiently handle large transformers, switchgears, and substations. The key difference between teams like RUS Industrial and commercial electrical subcontractors is that, instead of a simple installation, industrial projects require meticulous planning, flawless execution, and a thorough knowledge of every aspect of the system.
One vital aspect of industrial electrical construction projects is the installation of Motor Control Centers, Variable Frequency Drives, and Programmable Logic Controllers – highly intelligent systems that power the entire operation. Within all industrial electrical projects, a commitment to safety isn’t enough. At RUS Industrial, we specialize in industrial electrical jobs and treat safety as a discipline, constantly striving for perfection and ultimate safety for our crew and your facility. This is essential to prevent things like fires, explosions, and electrical shock mishaps.
Key Distinctions
While it might seem like there isn’t much of a difference between these two critical roles, they can be distinguished by a handful of major differences:
- Nature of the work: Commercial jobs typically use a standardized system, while industrial roles are highly customized and require a deeper understanding of the overall system.
- Tools of the trade: While commercial electrical subcontractors use a standard tool set, in many cases, industrial electrical subcontractors use high-voltage testing equipment, heavy-duty benders, and specialized automation systems.
- Criticality of safety: Probably the largest difference between the two types of electrical subcontractors is the safety requirements and hazardous environments they may face.
- Required skill and training: Industrial electrical subcontractors require a significantly higher level of training compared to their commercial counterparts.
Why Industrial Electrical Contractors Are Invaluable for Construction Jobs
Industrial construction is one of the most meticulous, detail-oriented industries in the world, making the role of an electrical subcontractor a vital investment for the facility’s safety, efficiency, and overall output. At RUS Industrial, our team of expert electrical subcontractors offers invaluable expertise not only for electrical systems but also for key integration within your system, ensuring your facility decreases downtime and runs consistently. Regardless of your facility’s unique needs, hiring our team for your electrical subcontracting needs can bring you the fastest, safest, and most reliable results in Houston.
Unmatched Expertise for Complicated Projects
What makes electrical systems a tough beast is how they require a complete knowledge of both the electrical system and the entire industrial project as a whole. This is because the electrical system must be able to dictate the flow of work, while also integrating flawlessly into existing operations.
Because our team of electrical subcontractors is dedicated to having a holistic view of a facility’s overall goals and processes, we can optimize your industrial construction project from start to finish.
Reliability and Decreased Downtime
Downtime is the most significant issue for industrial facilities in Houston. In a matter of minutes, lost work can amount to thousands of dollars down the drain. Because of this, an industrial electrical subcontractor with specialized skills for this industry can be a game-changer for cutting down on lost profits.
Not Just Another Vendor
When it comes to industrial construction projects, regardless of the quality of work, maintenance will continue to be ongoing. Because of this, choosing to work with an electrical subcontractor that can also serve as a partner for specialized maintenance down the line can lead to fewer unexpected repairs, downtime, and safety hazards.
If you need critical maintenance done on your industrial facility, working with our team from start to finish can set you up for long-term success.
The Long-term Investment in Safety
Cutting corners in industrial settings is never a good idea. When you choose to work with a non-specialized general contractor for your industrial construction job, you are going to receive one-size-fits-all service and no long-term benefits. By working with our team at RUS Industrial, you can make a lasting impact on your industrial facility by investing in highly specialized service, as well as a well-rounded, accurate knowledge of your unique system. This can greatly decrease your facility’s risk of accidents, production disruptions, and large-scale electrical issues.
Secure Your Facility’s Future with an Expert Industrial Electrical Subcontractor
At the end of the day, the differences between commercial and industrial electrical subcontractors are far deeper than just the nature of the construction site. Choosing the correct team for your industrial construction job can be the difference between long-term success and a lifetime of corrections, repairs, and significant downtime. When you work with RUS Industrial in Houston, we provide customized, detailed service that we tailor to your specific electrical needs, fully powering your facility for success. Contact us today for a free industrial construction estimate for your electrical needs!