Distribution Panel Board: Types, Sizes, Components, and Work Function

Distribution panel boards are one of the most significant parts of present-day electrical distribution systems. They guarantee that electrical current is distributed safely in different circuits in a structure, whether a business, manufacturing, or residential building. This blog aims to review the distribution panel boards, including their types, sizes and constituents.

Distribution Panel Board: What is it?  

A distribution panel board, commonly known as an electrical distribution board or switchboard, is an integral part of electrical installation. It is in the form of an electrical utility system that receives electrical power supply from the main source and then divides it into subcircuits in buildings. They then distribute electrical energy to lamps, home machines, and other electrical gadgets. They play a major role in controlling, monitoring and protecting the electrical systems.

Panel Board Function 

First and foremost, the function of the distribution panel board is to use the panel board interchangeably to convey electrical power from the main supply to other circuits. The board lets you control how electricity is taken or supplied in the building, providing equal power to all circuits. Besides, it safeguards against electric risks, especially through overloading and short circuit risks using breakers or fuses.

The need for a panel board transcends the act of distributing power along the many corridors of society. It is used as a management point for the electrical system, where electrical operation and maintenance can be done together with tracking of electrical loads. This makes it an important component of any power management system.

Distribution of Electrical Panel Board Components 

It is important to understand the essential parts of the electrical panel so that the right safety measures can be taken and the electrical systems can be operated optimally. Here are the main components found in most power distribution boards:

• Main Breaker: The main breaker is the controlling switch operating on the circulation of the electrical power system. It can block every electrical current that enters the board.

• Bus Bars are metal bars that transfer large amounts of current across the distribution board. The utilities strung the AC power lines straight to the circuit breakers.

• Circuit Breakers prevent a circuit from drawing too much current or a short circuit. When the current reaches certain highs, the breaker opens to eliminate the electricity feed and be protected.

• Neutral and Ground Bars: These are the terminals where neutral and ground wires are linked. They play critical roles in getting a balanced and safe electrical flow.

• Surge Protection Devices (SPDs): SPDs also safeguard the electrical system against voltage surges resulting from factors such as lightning or power failure.

• Enclosure: Everything has to do with electrical panels, which are contained in the enclosure to help shield them from dust, moisture, or physical harm.

Distribution Board Types 

The type of distribution panel board you will install depends on the electrical requirements of the building in question. Below are the different distribution board types.

• Main Distribution Board (MDB): This is the main panel board through which you get power deliveries directly from the utility. It supplies power to other sub-distribution boards or even directly to the end-user devices.

• Sub-Distribution Board: This type of board takes supply from the main distribution board to the particular section or equipment. These boards are used where the building has many floors or divided departments on a particular floor.

• Motor Control Center (MCC): An MCC is an industry distribution board. It comprises parts that govern the electric motors.

• 3-Phase Distribution Board: This is intended for a 3-phase power supply that is widely used in business establishments and industries. It provides three alternating currents, meaning its AC suits large loads or heavy machinery.

• Lighting Distribution Board: Such boards are generally used to control and regulate currents in lighting circuits.

Distribution Board Sizes 

A distribution board is usually of a size calculated based on the number of circuits required for supply and the total load to be provided. Residential boards are usually small and only contain a few circuits, while those of industrial use can take very many circuits.

When choosing the right distribution board size, it is essential to consider factors such as:

• Number of Circuits: These circuits mean that the larger the number of circuits that must be provided, the more the circuit board will be required.

• Load Requirements: Circuiting large loads will need a distribution board that can accommodate the current that will be descended to it.

• Future Expansion: Electrical requirements in the future must be considered, especially when commercial or industrial buildings require additional circuits later.

Also Read - What’s The Use Of A Power Distribution Board?

Conclusion 

A distribution panel board is an essential electrical system component responsible for safely distributing power to various circuits. By understanding the different distribution board types, sizes, and components, you can ensure that your electrical system operates efficiently and safely.

Whether for a small residential property or a large industrial facility, selecting the right power distribution board is crucial for effectively managing your electrical power. With the right knowledge, you can make informed decisions about which electrical distribution board will best suit your needs, ensuring your electrical system's safe and reliable operation.