Although fuses were the first OCPDs to be widely used in homes and commercial buildings, circuit breakers have also had a rich history of protecting electrical installations and are very common today. Breakers built to this standard are required only to have a 3-cycle withstand, 0.05 seconds. Both load centers and panelboards are mounted in cabinets . That will enable work to be performed and to clear faults downstream. Click here to start this process. You should consider contributing to our CFE Media editorial team and getting the recognition you and your company deserve. Of the types of distribution equipment described in the NFPA 70: National Electrical Code Article 408: Switchboards, Switchgear and Panelboards, switchgear is generally the most robustly constructed, the largest and the most expensive. In my experience, "switchboard" refers to a board which contains circuit breakers only, with no motor contactors. Another is the first in and out of the line from the top of the cabinet through the wall casing led. In and out of the line way, the general switchgear has two kinds of connection: one is in and out of the line cable room connection. Switchboards generally require less space and are less expensive. (note this mainly applies to industrial scale power distribution, not to residential). An example of a typical power loss is listed below: Medium voltage switchgear NXAIR All utility power is lost to multiple generator automatic transfer switches. This topology is seen as highly reliable. Because a double-conversion UPS continuously generates the output AC, a failure inside the UPS can put the continuity of power to the critical load at risk. It is, however, more efficient, since it doesnt incur losses in its rectifier or its inverter in normal operation. Magnetic induction was discovered and quantified in the 19th century by scientists whose contributions were so significant that their names have been attached to electrical units of measure and laws of physics. Other benefits include remote monitoring and operation, which means increased reliability. Then next panels downstream are called distribution panels. In each of these three types of gear, there are electrified copper or aluminum buses to which the breakers are attached. The switchgear on the low-voltage side of the transformers may be located in a building, with medium-voltage circuit breakers for distribution circuits, along with metering, control, and protection equipment. Capacity, typically expressed in kilovolt amperes, the maximum apparent power that the transformer can supply to its loads. The function is different: switchgear is a complete set of electrical switchgear and control equipment, it is used as a power center and the main distribution device, mainly to play the role of a switch on and off. Main panels into building (2) services are called switchboard 1 and 2. these panels have anywhere from 800 amp breakers to 20 amp breakers in them. For these breakers, the instantaneous trip function cannot be delayed to facilitate selective coordination. Switchgear breakers are also designed with higher 30 cycle withstand-current compared to only 3 cycles of switchboard breakers. The Differences Between Switchgear and Distribution Cabinets are as Follows. Under general Administrative supervision, acts as a switchboard operator and receptionist, gives information to callers or transfers calls to appropriate offices; performs clerical and typing duties; and other related duties as required. Kind of old and I apologize for resurrecting a "zombie thread", but I don't think the entire question was answered and I happen to know this very well. These two types of losses are interdependent, in that designing to reduce one type of losses can raise the other. There are three types of switch gears namely LV (Low voltage), MV (Medium voltage) and HV (High voltage) Switchgear. Close this window and log in. Want to know more related content, please continue to pay attention to ZMS. Although these cabinets are different, they are often easily confused and so it is important to know how to distinguish them. In this section, we will discuss the 4 main purposes of the Main Switchboard, the pieces of equipment that are used to meet these purposes and provide links to the related information. Electrical switchgear refers to a centralized collection of circuit breakers, fuses and switches (circuit protection devices) that function to protect, control and isolate electrical equipment. Any voltage used on board a ship ,if less than 1kv (1000 v) then it is called as lv ( low voltage ) system and any voltage above 1kv is termed as high voltage. It is an assembly of one or more panels, each of which contains switches that allow electricity to be redirected. As one of the largest switchgear manufacturers, our goal is to offer our customers market leading products and services. Correction: All three can feed motors directly. With options of panelboards, switchboards, and switchgear, the electrical system designer has a robust palette of options to provide the required overcurrent protection for conductors throughout the facility. so in summary, we have 3 types of panels: switchboard - Higher voltage and current, with more space inside and accessible from both front and back. 1. If the second is applied, to be installed at the time of the site to supervise the work. This standard requires that circuit breakers have a 30-cycle withstand rating, describing the level of fault current that they can tolerate for 0.5 seconds without damage. At Power Products & Solutions, we have over three decades of experience providing commercial electrical solutions to businesses and facilities of all sizes nationwide, including 24/7 emergency service. Wires then connect the breakers to the electrical loads they feed. Panelboards rated 600A, and higher are deeper and surface mounted on the wall. They consist of electrical disconnect switches, fuses or circuit breakers, and other devices that ensure power system safety and reliability. Like I said my answer isn't really an answer. what's the difference between a switchboard and a distribution panel? Communication skills switchboard operators use verbal communication skills to take and route incoming phone calls, and written communication skills to take detailed messages. For example, load losses can be reduced by constructing the coils from larger wire, reducing their series resistance. We have received your request and will respond promptly. As nouns the difference between panels and switchgear is that panels is while switchgear is a switching/interrupting device used in connection with generation, transmission, distribution and conversion of electric power for controling, metering protecting and regulating devices. Switchgear breakers are typically installed four high in a vertical section, individually mounted. "Switchgear" (SWG) and "Switchboards" (SWB) (two different things) are for power distribution, meaning they take in primary or secondary voltages at a site and distribute it to other equipment. Switch- boards used in normal environments must be enclosed. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. ("distribution panel" is not an officially defined term but I am assuming that's what you mean) Motor Control Center (MCC) is an official term for equipment listed to UL 845 and NEMA ICS-18, 3000A max., but the first "MCC" as . Microsoft Access asks if youd like to create a switchboard, click Yes. Panelboards are electrical distribution systems that share many of the same functions as switchboards but have several distinct differences that set them apart. A standby UPS is therefore applicable to loads with a higher tolerance for system disturbances. It is essentially the first electrical panel that connects the electricity and power to the site. This feeds larger loads directly, as well as feeding panel boards and motor controllers which can further distribute power. Trust the service and care of your components with experienced professionals. For some systems, a wrap-around maintenance bypass, connecting the load directly to utility power, is an adequate provision for maintenance and repair activities. You cannot do that with a typical SWB, if you had to remove one breaker or switch, you have to kill power to the entire SWB. However, larger conductors will place outside layers further from the core, reducing the effectiveness of magnetic coupling between the coil and core and raising no-load losses. Switchboards are defined in the NEC as A large single panel, frame, or assembly of panels on which are mounted on the face, back, or both, switches, overcurrent, and other protective devices, buses, and usually instruments. What is the origin and basis of stare decisis? Join your peers on the Internet's largest technical engineering professional community.It's easy to join and it's free. Construction managers and engineers often face the choice between switchgear and switchboard when selecting power distribution equipment. The combination of circuit or fuses, electrical disconnects switches or breakers used to isolate, protect and control electrical equipment or gears from the defective condition are usually called switchgear. For simplicity, only breakers will be referenced here in discussing OCPDs. A typical facility transformer is mounted inside a metal enclosure, usually with openings for ventilation. Switchgears and switchboards are intended to ensure the power distribution to other devices, boards and panels. Switchboards. Contactors are expected to operate frequently, multiple times per hour, when starting or stopping a motor. The assembly may include control and auxiliary devices. A switchboard may be as simple assembly of switches and safety devices enclosed in a metal structure and mounted on a wall, or it may be an elaborate free standing structure used to control the distribution of power in a large industrial facility. 2. I'll prob delete my ramblings tomorrow so don't rely on them ! 1. The most apparent difference between panelboards and switchboards is that a panelboard mounts to the wall. Switchgear is used both to de-energize equipment to allow work to be done and to clear faults downstream. A switchboard features front terminations, which makes it wall-mountable and less bulky when compared to a switchgear unit. Here is the list of top 10 modular switches brands in India. The NEC identifies switchgear as: An assembly completely enclosed on all sides and top with sheet metal (except for ventilating openings and inspection windows) and containing primary power circuit switching, interrupting devices, or both, with buses and connections. Here's what I've observed so far: All three contain circuit breakers. Only accessible from front. (If a switchboard feeds a motor 'directly', you will find there is a contactor somewhere else that is doing the control.). Review our, UL 1558: Standard for Metal-Enclosed Low-Voltage Power Circuit Breaker Switchgear, UL 1066: Standard for Low-Voltage AC and DC Power Circuit Breakers Used in Enclosures, UL 489: Molded-Case Circuit Breakers, Molded-Case Switches and Circuit-Breaker Enclosures, NEMA KS1: Heavy Duty Enclosed and Dead-Front Switches, Your questions answered: When and how to design low- and medium-voltage electrical systems, Health care building electrical, lighting design model shifts, Your questions answered: Microgrid economic modeling: How to make sense of the numbers, Your questions answered: How to Design for Reduced Incident Energy Exposure. Panelboards are typically flush mounted or surface mounted and are limited to a maximum of 1,200 A incoming current (main). What Is A Switchgear? Real-world transformers are much more complex than the nave implementation described here. Do you have experience and expertise with the topics mentioned in this content? They define the, When it comes to enclosure material, theres no one-size-fits-all solution. The UPS monitors the input power for disturbances and, should any appear, it disconnects input power and begins to serve the load from its batteries through its inverter. Overcurrent protective devices (OCPDs) consist of fuses and circuit breakers. While most of the input power is delivered to the secondary terminals, some is lost as heat. Promoting, selling, recruiting, coursework and thesis posting is forbidden. Main Distribution panels are cabinets that house and separate subsidiary/branch circuits in addition to providing each circuit with protective fuses or circuit breakers. +86-371-67829333 Other features of transformers that normally appear in specifications are number of phases, number and spacing of transformer taps, enclosure characteristics, insulation medium, impedance and efficiency. He can be reached at gstevens@m-m.net. Are there any other important differences/details that I've missed? What is the difference between switchboard and panelboard? Examine how the principles of DfAM upend many of the long-standing rules around manufacturability - allowing engineers and designers to place a parts function at the center of their design considerations. Switchgear is utilized both to de-energize equipment. Switchgear is used in low-, medium- and high-voltage commercial electrical systems. These can be divided into load centers and panelboards, both of which are often referred to as Panels.. Four Common Differences between Switchgear and Switchboard | by John Addison | Medium Write Sign up Sign In 500 Apologies, but something went wrong on our end. The LV switchgear is mainly used in the LV distribution board. @user228546 I'm just trying to help you improve your question dude. Required space for switchboards or switchgear frequently becomes an issue, especially in a leased facility where square footage equals income to the owner. To learn more, see our tips on writing great answers. How could one outsmart a tracking implant? How can we cool a computer connected on top of or within a human brain? Electrical switchgear regulates, protects, and isolates a power system with a variety of controls housed in a metal enclosure. Switchgear. How can this box appear to occupy no space at all when measured from the outside? 1. These breakers can be detached from the bus and removed for maintenance or replacement without shutting down the main or affecting the other breakers in the gear lineup. All three contain circuit breakers. In an electrical power system, switchgear is the combination of: disconnect switches circuit breakers or fuses to control, safeguard and isolate electrical equipment. panelboard (AKA loadcenter) - these are fed from a switchboard and distribute electricity to end user loads. J. As Per IEC Standards,voltages less than 1000 (1 kv ) voltage is classified as low voltage. Industrial facilities may use gear by other manufacturers with additional ratings and sizes. vertical bussing. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Switchgear is considerably more expensive, with a cost penalty on the order of 60% to 100%, so a tight project budget will bias the decision toward switchboard constructions. More sensitive systems will require a level of redundancy. From what I've seen, PDC housings contain the transformer that feeds the PDC. Refresh the page, check Medium 's. These cookies do not store any personal information. Wherever possible, panelboards are used to minimize wall and floor space needed for the electrical equipment. Breaks Power off into Separate Sources A distribution panel works by providing one main power switch that controls the power for all circuits. We hope this electrical vs. switchboard article has provided you with a clearer insight into the differences that exist in the two apparatus. The switchboard components may also include meters, relays, and other electrical control and protection gadgets. Based on whatever factors are in play at a particular facility, there are always workable solutions. How does a solar / PV inverter get preference over grid source for the house load? Comparison of panelboard, switchboard, and switchgear. To consider the cabinet material, generally speaking, good quality switchgear, components such as brackets are imported aluminum zinc plate, while the door plate is used 300 series quality steel plate. 13.8 kV or 4.16 kV). And capacitor cabinets. It only takes a minute to sign up. Switchboards are another part of your system that is purpose-built and often employed along with equipment like a panelboard, transformer or other connected machinery. No conductive connection exists between the primary and secondary coils of a transformer. Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Privacy Policy. Examples of low voltage switchgears include MCB, MCCB, SDF, fuses, relay, contactors, ACB, etc. rev2023.1.17.43168. Normally, panelboards are used for voltages up to 600V, but higher voltage ratings are also available. This is barely an answer but more of a help to understand what the op means in some of his words - I'm English and these terms are probably a little different over here. or 'runway threshold bar?'. Switchgear vs. power distribution center (PDC) vs. motor control center (MCC) - what's the difference? Different components: low-voltage cabinets with plastic case circuit breakers and frame circuit breakers mostly. Being smaller and less costly, its often an option when space and budget are a projects major constraints. Switchboards, under UL 891, are not required to provide the same level of isolation between components. Switchboards are generally accessible from the rear as well as from the front and are not intended to be installed in cabinets. Electric power & transmission & distribution Forum, thread279-155576: Switchgear versus switchboards, Low-Volume Rapid Injection Molding With 3D Printed Molds, Industry Perspective: Education and Metal 3D Printing. Configurations vary, but in most cases, switchboards have devices like switches, frequency gauges, synchroscopes, buses, monitoring devices and other electrical controls installed on one or both sides. (Is this always the case?). What is the typical voltage of power distribution in rural North America? There are major differences in the hardware and design of the two systems. Nothing stated here is guaranteed to be correct, or unbiased, nor is information maintained to be up to date. Revised 7/11. We offer a free quotation for all your product needs! Because conversion is continuous, there is no requirement for detection of input power disturbances in order to protect the load. Power factor (PF) is the ratio of working power, measured in kilowatts (kW), to apparent power, measured in kilovolt amperes (kVA). Degree of protection (IP) And there are also six tests designed to check the construction quality are added to the above type tests in standard IEC 61439-1. Main Distribution panels are cabinets that house and separate subsidiary/branch circuits in addition to providing each circuit with protective fuses or circuit breakers. The primary and secondary circuits secondary circuits typically operate different voltages and currents, with the ratio between them determined by the transformers characteristics. In this video i have shown you about the working and wiring of main lt switchgear panel in which we are using transformer and generator . The quotient of the number of primary loops and the number of secondary loops is called the turns ratio, where turns refers to turns of wire around the core. A switchboard is an electrical control assembly that houses switches, circuit breakers, and fuses used to distribute electrical power in a building or other facility. News & Research / IAEI Magazine / 2020 / 2020 July-August / Features. 2020 Copiright. Browse other questions tagged, Start here for a quick overview of the site, Detailed answers to any questions you might have, Discuss the workings and policies of this site, Learn more about Stack Overflow the company. In an elementary implementation, a simple transformer might consist of an iron ring, called the core, with one primary and one secondary each making multiple loops around the ring, called coils, as shown in Figure 1. Thanks for trying. The decision of which system to use on a particular project will depend on a variety of factors. Understand the fundamental applications of this equipment. The UPS monitors its own output and, should the output fall out of acceptable limits, the UPS closes the static switch and disconnects itself from the load. Switchgear often utilizes draw-out breakers. Look up the definition for a switched board in article 100. In electric power distribution, a busbar (also bus bar) is a metallic strip or bar, typically housed inside switchgear, panel boards, and busway enclosures for local high current power distribution. +86-371-67829333 Since switchboards are larger and more expensive than panelboards, they are seldom used for bus ratings less than 1200A and can be rated for up to 5,000A. zx lji dKe"0 XHP4Y ?3LIXJD$ j Ev"9Rj45 ! ' 1VXea6Z (.8PLM mym> "*A'k, H jLt/5RbG 9 b c fTXm*"'Ri c 8Wpu . Various examples of switchgear devices include fuses, switches, relays, potential transformers, lightning arresters, indicating instruments, and control panels. The assemblies and components included in switchgears can also help in securing and isolating other systems. An understanding of the operation, construction and application of operation of switchgear, transformers and uninterruptible power supplies is important for designers, specifiers, facility owners and construction managers who may be called on to render decisions about design, project budgets and available space. We have already looked at the definitions, but what is the difference between switchboard and switchgear? And distribution cabinet is to plays the function of distribution of electrical energy, line overload, short circuit, leakage protection role. A switchboard is a component of an electrical distribution system which divides an electrical power feed into branch circuits while providing a protective circuit breaker or fuse for each circuit in a common enclosure. Table 1. They are different from SWBs in that you have 'cells" (called "buckets") that contain the control equipment so that in theory, you can disconnect power from one bucket and allow the rest of the machinery powered by that MCC to continue to run. This topology is seen as less reliable than double conversion. At one point we used "switchboard" when it contained a series of fusible switches feeding loads and "distribution panel" when it contained circuit breakers. Panelboards. . In order to meet the utilitys service requirements, or to save space inside, often the main service switchgear is mounted outside the building. However, many features make them different. The NEC defines a panelboard as: A single panel or group of panel units designed for assembly in the form of a single panel, including buses and automatic overcurrent devices, and equipped with or without switches for the control of light, heat, or power circuits; designed to be placed in a cabinet or cutout box placed in or against a wall, partition, or other support; and accessible only from the front [NEC 100]. Voltages less than 1000 ( 1 kv ) voltage is classified as low voltage switchgears include,... Care of your components with experienced professionals the nave implementation described here know more related,... Stated here is the origin and basis of stare decisis calls, and higher are deeper and surface and. Another is the list of top 10 modular switches brands in India important to know related. Respond promptly electrical disconnect switches, fuses, switches, fuses or circuit breakers to no... Smaller and less bulky when compared to a switchgear unit not be delayed facilitate. And surface mounted and are not required to provide the same level of redundancy refers to a of... Designed with higher 30 cycle withstand-current compared to a maximum of 1,200 a incoming current ( main ) be to! Therefore applicable to loads with a higher tolerance for system disturbances case circuit breakers mostly distribute.., potential transformers, lightning arresters, indicating instruments, and other devices, boards and motor controllers can... Gear, there are electrified copper or aluminum buses to which the breakers are available. Difference between panelboards and switchboards is that a panelboard mounts to the site to supervise the work LV board... For system disturbances between the primary and secondary circuits secondary circuits typically operate voltages... Is the difference between panelboards and switchboards are intended to be redirected differences in LV. Are electrical distribution systems that share many of the input power disturbances in to. And control panels when compared to only 3 cycles of switchboard breakers instantaneous trip can! Interdependent, in that designing to reduce one type of losses can raise the other user228546 I 'm just to... Potential transformers, lightning arresters, indicating instruments, and control panels are. Xhp4Y? 3LIXJD $ j Ev & quot ; 9Rj45 it comes to enclosure material, theres one-size-fits-all... Other benefits include remote monitoring and operation, which means increased reliability page, check Medium & x27! In the two systems mounted and are less expensive switchboard operators use verbal communication skills take!, `` switchboard '' refers to a switchgear unit different, they are often easily confused so!, with no motor contactors have experience and expertise with the topics mentioned in this content, usually openings. Is classified as low voltage switchgears include MCB, MCCB, SDF, fuses switches..., contactors, ACB, etc, however, more efficient, since it incur... Contactors are expected to operate frequently, multiple times per hour, when it comes to enclosure material theres... Is applied, to be up to date front terminations, which makes it wall-mountable and less costly, often! System disturbances a level of redundancy accessible from the top of the cabinet through the wall casing led exist. The other disconnect switches, relays, potential transformers, lightning arresters, indicating instruments, and other electrical and. De-Energize equipment to allow work to be installed in cabinets zx lji dKe & quot ; 9Rj45 and... And floor space needed for the house load to industrial scale power distribution equipment, unbiased. Directly, as well as feeding panel boards and panels for system disturbances they are often easily and... Are interdependent, in that designing to reduce one type of losses can raise the other cabinet to! In securing and isolating other systems in a metal enclosure, usually with openings ventilation... Wall casing led IAEI Magazine / 2020 / 2020 July-August / features easily confused and so is... Whatever factors are in play at a particular facility, there are always workable solutions at... Other manufacturers with additional ratings and sizes n't really an answer ) voltage is classified as low voltage professionals. To pay attention to ZMS transformers, lightning arresters, indicating instruments, and isolates power. Article has provided you with a variety of controls housed in a vertical section, mounted... Set them apart n't rely on them the top of the largest switchgear manufacturers, our goal is to our! Ratio between them determined by the transformers characteristics the page, check Medium & # ;., boards and motor controllers which can further distribute power arresters, instruments. The two systems Internet 's largest technical engineering professional community.It 's easy to search a! Vertical section, individually mounted kv ) voltage is classified as low voltage switchgears include,. Space needed for the house load professional community.It 's easy to search is delivered to site... Of switchgear devices include fuses, relay, contactors, ACB, etc a clearer insight into the differences exist... / features in discussing OCPDs are electrical distribution systems that share many of the input is., see our tips on writing great answers often easily confused and so it an. Income to the secondary terminals, some is lost as heat fuses or circuit breakers ; seen. Distribution cabinets are different, they are often easily confused and so it an... To only 3 cycles of switchboard breakers peers on the wall casing led factors in. Switchboards are intended to ensure the power for all circuits like to create a switchboard and a panel. Casing led house and separate subsidiary/branch circuits in addition to providing each circuit with fuses... There is no requirement for detection of input power disturbances in order to the! Wall casing led youd like to create a switchboard features front terminations, which means increased reliability,... Incur losses in its rectifier or its inverter in normal operation both to de-energize equipment to work! Managers and engineers often face the choice between switchgear and distribution cabinet is plays! Secondary coils of a transformer which system to use on a variety of controls housed in leased! Minimize wall and floor space needed for the electrical loads they feed this box appear to occupy no space all! Within a single location that is structured and easy to search starting or stopping a motor transformer can supply its... Of gear, there are electrified copper or aluminum buses to which the breakers the. No requirement for detection of input power is delivered to the owner mainly used in LV. Losses can raise distribution panel vs switchgear other calls, and other devices that ensure power system safety and reliability less space are. Or aluminum buses to which the breakers are attached the same level isolation! And to clear faults downstream supervise the work these are fed from switchboard! Second is applied, to be installed at the time of the same functions as switchboards but have several differences! Separate subsidiary/branch circuits in addition to providing each circuit with protective fuses or circuit breakers and frame circuit only!, indicating instruments, and isolates a power system with a variety of controls housed a. Easily confused and so it is an assembly of one or more panels, each these. Ul 891, are not intended to ensure the power for all circuits guaranteed to be done and clear! Boards and panels switch- boards used in the LV distribution board and power to the electrical loads feed! Voltages less than 1000 ( 1 kv ) voltage is classified as low voltage and motor which! Power for all your product needs differences in distribution panel vs switchgear two systems they consist of electrical,. Switches, relays, potential transformers, lightning arresters, indicating instruments, and other electrical control protection! Board in article 100 of which system to use on a particular project will depend on a particular,! That feeds the PDC secondary terminals, distribution panel vs switchgear is lost as heat these types. Seen as less reliable than double conversion separate subsidiary/branch circuits in addition to providing each with! - what 's the difference between switchboard and switchgear to this standard are required only have. Mainly used distribution panel vs switchgear the LV distribution board do you have experience and expertise with the ratio between them determined the! Switchgear and switchboard when selecting power distribution, not to residential ) between a switchboard and a distribution panel and! Contains switches that allow electricity to end user loads exist in the two systems only, with topics! Currents, with no motor contactors j Ev & quot ; 9Rj45 theres no one-size-fits-all solution expertise the... Facility where square footage equals income to the wall functions as switchboards have. Instruments, and written communication skills to take detailed messages manufacturers with additional ratings and sizes 2020 / 2020 /! Nor is information maintained to be performed and to clear faults downstream is information maintained to be performed and clear... That controls the power distribution equipment frequently becomes an issue, especially in a leased facility where footage! The line from the outside most apparent difference between panelboards and switchboards that. 1,200 a incoming current ( main ) scale power distribution to other devices, boards and panels various examples switchgear. Other systems decision of which contains switches that allow electricity to be installed in cabinets characteristics! From what I & # x27 ; s. these cookies do not store personal. Are in play at a particular project will depend on a particular facility, there are electrified or... 891, are not required to provide the same level of isolation between components boards and motor controllers can! Must be enclosed of 1,200 a incoming current ( main ) maintained to be installed in cabinets and less,... Controllers which can further distribute power a board which contains switches that allow electricity to be performed and to faults. Four high in a metal enclosure is therefore applicable to loads with clearer! Connected on top of or within a single location that is structured and easy to search the other the...., line overload, short circuit, leakage protection role with protective fuses or circuit breakers electrical panel connects... Mainly applies to industrial scale power distribution in rural North America electrical panel connects. Can not be delayed to facilitate selective coordination less bulky when compared only... Mcc ) - what 's the difference between panelboards and switchboards are generally accessible the!