What is an Electrical Switchboard?
Switchboards are used for the safe distribution of power across commercial and industrial facilities. A switchboard is an essential element of a power distribution system that divides input electrical power into branch circuits. It accomplishes this while also providing a circuit breaker or fuse to safeguard all of the separate circuits in a single enclosure. Let’s look into that in further detail.
An electric switchboard is an electrical device used for the safe and hassle-free distribution of electricity from one electrical source to another. An electric switchboard is a vital piece of equipment used during the entire power distribution process. This electrical device is made up of several electric panels.
Every electric panel consists of switches that help in redirecting the electricity. An electrical switchboard is either a single large panel or a combination of several electrical panels which consist of switches and other power control equipment. The main purpose of a switchboard is to regulate the flow of power. To state in simple words, a switchboard divides the input power into several smaller chunks and redistributes it to the devices present across type entire power grid. What are these devices? Switchboards supply power to panels, transformers and other equipment from where the electricity is then distributed.
From where does an electrical switchboard get a power supply? Either from a power generator or any power utility source. The operator that works with a switchboard should be protected from electrocution. How is that possible? Fuses and switches that are mounted on the switchboard provide the needed protection. One should always remember that the amount of power received by a switchboard should always be equal to the amount of power distributed by it. Other controls, such as load sharing controls and gauges installed on the switchboard, guarantee that power is distributed safely.
How do power distribution systems work? Power is sent from the utility provider in a power supply system, which then moves through an electric switchboard. Switchboards relay the power or electricity throughout several circuits. The power is then scaled up to the feeders and distributed to various other locations within the entire power grid.
The maximum voltage rating of Switchboards typically is 600 Vac/Vdc. They have a maximum bus rating of 6000 A. Switchboards are designed to meet the UL891 regulations and the NEMA Standard PB2. Spike Electric is an experienced and superior switchboard manufacturer. We provide custom switchboards as per the needs and requirements of commercial and industrial facilities.
Choosing an ideal switchboard can be a very daunting task. Hence, the experts at one of the leading custom switchboard Manufacturers- Spike Electric, have put down some verified information in this article. The insights shared here will help you choose an ideal switchboard for your commercial or industrial facility.
Types of Electric Switchboards
Depending upon the current rating, design type, interrupt rating, operating type, voltage, insulation medium, and other several factors, different types of electric switchboards are available in the market.
The inner part of an electric switchboard consists of several busbars, aluminum, and copper strips which are in turn connected to switches. A switchboard functions with a single purpose- to supply power to every single electrical device present in a power supply system of a commercial or industrial facility. How much current should be supplied to a particular electric device is wholly dependent on the amount of power the device needs to function properly. The electric switchboard receives input power from a major power source like a power generator and is then distributed to the several electrical devices within the facility.
Switchboards always come with a 3-phase feature. Switchboards are either floor-mounted or wall-mounted, which is why they are called versatile systems switchboards, and are designed in such a manner that they can be accessed from both front and back. Often, the majority of switchboards are modular switchboards. What does that mean? Modular switchboards consist of individual cubicles, and every cubicle, in turn, consists of switchboard modules.
The structure and design of these cubicles can be customized, removed, and emptied- according to the requirements and expectations of the client. Amp ratings on switchboards range from 1200A to 6000A. Therefore, the switchboards can be utilized for both AC and DC currents and serve a diverse range of applications for both the industrial and commercial sectors. Because switchboards are large, they may accommodate large circuit breakers, such as fix mounted molded case circuit breakers or draw out circuit breakers.
Spike Electric provides custom quick-ship Switchboards that can be used across several industrial applications. As one of the leading switchboard manufacturers, we offer switchboards in various sizes, ratings, and distinct applications.
Power Supply To The Electric Switchboard
Let’s say that a particular electrical device is connected to the switchboard. However, it is not in use. In such an instance, only a minimum amount of power should be supplied to the electrical device.
During maintenance of the switchboard, it should be switched off and locked out by qualified personnel. By doing so, you can prevent the operator working on the switchboard from being electrocuted. The main sources of power inside a switchboard are the copper or aluminium busbars. Hence, if an individual has to work on an electrical switchboard, accurate and precise precautions must be taken. If an individual must work on live switchboards, then take the necessary safeguards prior to working on it. Working on a live electrical switchboard necessitates protective shoes, gloves, eyewear, and rubber mats. Always lock out tag out any hazardous energy source before performing work on the switchboard and test to ensure the flow of energy has been isolated before touching any possible live parts.
Top Quality Switchboard Manufacturers – Spike Electric
Are you not sure about which switchboard to purchase? Are you still puzzled about the ideal switchboard for your facility? Then, reach out to Spike Electric today! Our excellent team of expert engineers will recommend, design, and build a customized and precise switchboard for you. Get in touch with one of the best switchboard manufacturers today!
Written by: Cole Attaway
Cole Attaway is the founder and CEO of Spike Electric Controls. Spike's mission is to improve the accessibility and delivery of industrial electrical gear for clients nationwide. Spike solutions result in reduced unplanned downtime, less overtime, and greater operational efficiencies.
