Industrial Switchgear and Motor Control RFQ Guide

Prepared by: JCON ELECUpdated: 2026-10-16

Short answer

Start an industrial RFQ with the single-line diagram and motor/load list. Separate MV/LV distribution, MCC feeders and PLC controls, then define starting methods, fault duty, spare circuits and commissioning responsibilities. Suppliers can only make comparable offers when equipment and process-control boundaries are explicit.

Plan the package around factory loads and operating needs

A factory RFQ should connect incoming distribution with production loads and control requirements. Separate the main switchboards, motor circuits and process automation so each supplier prices the same scope.

MV switchgear or RMU, transformer interfaces and LV main distribution.
MCC feeders for pumps, fans, compressors and production equipment.
PLC control cabinets, starter panels and communications defined by the process team.

Supply scope and interfaces

Supply scope and interfaces
Package item	Information to confirm	Boundary to agree
MV/LV distribution	SLD, transformer interfaces, ratings and feeder schedule	Identify transformer, cable and site-work responsibilities
MCC and starters	Motor duty, starting frequency and DOL/soft starter/VFD selection	Separate power feeders from process control and field equipment
PLC and automation	Control logic, I/O, HMI and communication interfaces	State whether programming, sensors and site commissioning are included

Information to include in the RFQ

Electrical systemSLD, supply voltage, transformer ratings, earthing, busbar current, fault level and withstand duration.

Load and motor listMotor power, quantity, duty, starting frequency and direct-on-line, soft starter or VFD requirements.

Process interfacesPLC/HMI brands, I/O list, interlocks, emergency-stop interfaces and communication protocol.

Installation and growthRoom dimensions, cable entry, IP rating, ambient conditions, spare feeders and future extension.

Approval and deliverySpecified brands, drawing review, datasheets, test records, packing, destination, lead time and Incoterms.

Related distribution equipment

Medium Voltage Switchgear

Incoming, metering, bus section and feeder panels with project-specific protection.

View product

GCS Low Voltage Switchgear

Withdrawable LV distribution and motor-control sections with project-specific feeders.

View product

Control Cabinets

PLC, motor starting, VFD and auxiliary control configurations for process loads.

View product

How to compare supplier quotations

Complete circuit scopeMatch every incomer, bus tie, motor feeder, auxiliary circuit and spare way to the BOQ.

Motor configurationCompare breaker, contactor, overload protection, starter or VFD selection and cabinet cooling.

Coordination responsibilitiesConfirm who supplies protection studies, PLC software, field sensors and site commissioning.

Cost alternativesList compliant alternatives separately; retain required brands and agree any changes before ordering.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between an industrial main switchboard and an MCC?The main switchboard distributes incoming power to plant loads. An MCC groups motor feeder, switching, starting and protection functions. Their ratings and interfaces follow the project SLD and motor list.

What is needed to quote a motor control cabinet?Provide motor ratings, quantity, operating duty, starting method, control logic, I/O, preferred brands, enclosure rating and site environment.

Can the design allow future expansion?Spare feeders, reserved space and busbar extension can be reviewed when the RFQ defines the future load and layout. Final provisions must be shown in approved drawings.

Sources and scope

This JCON ELEC procurement guide organizes equipment and interface questions for project review. JCON product pages describe available equipment families; external manufacturer material is technical background, not evidence of JCON authorization, certification or a complete plant offer. Final ratings, compliance and responsibilities require approved project documents and an agreed supply scope.

Continue reading

Send your project requirements

Share the single-line diagram, equipment list, required brands, site conditions and destination for a project-based technical and commercial proposal.

Send RFQ