Apparatus and method for module retention in a motor control center

A method for retaining a module in a motor control center, the method comprising the steps of:

• inserting the module a first distance into the motor control center, the first distance being less than full insertion into the motor control center, wherein inserting the module the first distance into the motor control center includes:
• deflecting a biasing member of an apparatus mounted to an outer surface of a housing for the module from a first position toward the outer surface of the housing to a second position, and
• expanding a spring mounted between a retaining member of the apparatus and an inner surface of the housing;
• and
• inserting the module a second distance into the motor control center, the second distance being a difference between full insertion and the first distance into the motor control center, wherein inserting the module the second distance into the motor control center includes:
• moving the biasing member of the apparatus away from the outer surface of the housing with a force generated by the spring when the module is fully inserted into the motor control center, and
• engaging the motor control center with the biasing member when the module is fully inserted into the motor control center to resist removal of the module from the motor control center.

An apparatus for retaining a module in a motor control center, the apparatus comprising:

• a plate compressibly mounted to an outer surface of a housing for the module, the plate having a first retaining member configured to extend into the housing for the module and a second retaining member configured to engage the motor control center;
• and
• a spring mounted between the first retaining member and an inner surface of the housing for the module, wherein:
• the spring is extended by compressing the plate against the outer surface of the housing during insertion of the module into the motor control center,
• the spring applies a force to the plate away from the outer surface of the housing when the spring is extended, and
• the second retaining member is configured to engage the motor control center when the module is fully inserted to resist removal of the module from the motor control center.