27-05-2025
Eplan L!VE: Global Online Event – Insights from the Field at Eaton
On May 14, 2025, Eplan hosted its global online event, Eplan L!VE, broadcasting directly from Eaton's advanced production facility in Hengelo, Netherlands. This event offered attendees worldwide a unique, behind-the-scenes look at how Eaton optimized its engineering and manufacturing processes for maximum efficiency using Eplan solutions .
First-Hand Experience from the Field
Participants learned how Eaton's Hengelo site, a key player in the company's global network, transformed its operations by adopting a data-driven approach and fully integrating Eplan software into its engineering methodology. This shift enabled Eaton to standardize its processes, automate document updates, and achieve a high level of consistency and efficiency across all stages—from design to manufacturing .
Key Highlights from the Event Eaton showcased how it automated the generation of schematics, bills of materials, terminal diagrams, and cabling lists using Eplan Engineering Configuration (EEC), drastically reducing manual effort and errors.
The facility leveraged Eplan Pro Panel for 3D digital design of control cabinet layouts, with data directly supporting automatic cable routing and manufacturing automation.
Rittal Automation Systems' Wire Terminal WT, capable of producing up to 1,000 wires per day, and machines for processing copper rails further streamlined production .
Standardization and Automation
Eaton's journey began in 2018, when management set ambitious goals to improve electrical design and manufacturing. A dedicated team worked closely with Eplan consultants to standardize device data, implement reusable templates and macros, and ensure global engineering standards. The result was a highly efficient, automated, and scalable production system that benefits both large corporations and SMEs .
Sneak Preview of Eplan Platform 2026
The event concluded with a preview of the upcoming Eplan Platform 2026, including enhanced 3D navigation in Eplan Pro Panel, direct access to device data via the Data Portal, and new single-line technology in Eplan Preplanning. Eplan's CEO, Sebastian Seitz, also shared the company's future strategy and highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in engineering's next wave .
Background
Eaton, a global leader in intelligent power management, has been a technology partner in the Eplan Partner Network since 2023. The Hengelo facility specializes in power distribution systems and switchgear, using Eplan and Rittal solutions to drive efficiency and innovation in both in-house and customer-facing projects .
Eplan L!VE 2025 provided a comprehensive, real-world look at how digital transformation and smart automation are shaping the future of engineering and manufacturing, offering valuable insights for companies of all sizes
