The electrical network in every home is a complex interacting set of devices and equipment that is not only provides power to household appliances and light sources, but also ensures the stability of the supply electricity. One of the main elements of any network is the main switchboard. This is a high-tech system that is responsible for uninterrupted power supply and even distribution of energy throughout the house.
Content
- Constructive device and principle of operation
- Classification options
- Degrees of protection
- Types and purpose
Constructive device and principle of operation
The decoding of the main switchboard adopted in the electrics sounds like "the main switchboard". It is a complete, low-voltage device equipped with a set of mechanisms for input, distribution and control over the amount of consumed electricity. The main switchboard provides protection for outgoing electrical circuits in residential, as well as industrial and public facilities.
Initially, electricity from the transformer substations is supplied to the facility's switchboard. Several functional units, which represent the main equipment of the switchboard, are located in separate panels and are mechanically or electrically connected.
The main functions of the main switchboard are:-
providing consumers with stable electricity; - connection to power lines;
- ensuring the quality and continuity of power supply;
- selective protection (in separate faulty units);
- prevention of current overload and the resulting short circuit on input and distribution devices;
- automatic reserve input;
- accounting of consumed electricity volumes.
The main switchboard can be connected to power both from the main inputs (transformer substations) and from backup sources (transformers, gas or petrol generators, solar panels, wind generators installation). In the normal operating mode, all consumers of the main board are connected to it by means of a separate input. But in case of emergencies, a group connection of consumers to the power reserves is provided if its supply from the main input stops.
Installation of panels is carried out in two ways: installation of a completely finished kit on site or assembly of individual components by specialists. The selection of the main switchboard is carried out on the basis of its standard size, the components of the units, the tasks assigned to it and the value of the rated current.
Classification options
The schemes of the main distribution boards differ, which is determined by the number of incoming and outgoing lines. Most units have two inputs and outputs, which means the ability to connect to two transformers. For the convenience of selection, the manufacturer applies the appropriate marking on the equipment, which includes:
- information about the manufacturer itself;
- device type;
- degree of protection;
- rated current value;
- weight and dimensions;
- description of technical conditions;
- production date;
- other important information.
All main switchboards in electrics are devices that are divided into types depending on different parameters. For example, according to the method of installation, they distinguish between floor-mounted, surface-mounted and built-in type shields. For the installation of overhead, a wall or other support is required, the whole structure is located outside. In contrast to them, a recess is made in advance for built-in shields, the entire body is recessed into the wall, and a cover remains on the surface. Floor-standing devices are placed either on a stand or directly on the floor.
Depending on the place of installation work, the main switchboard is divided into internal and external. The latter must have appropriate design and protection for outdoor use.
Degrees of protection
Each case of the main switchboard corresponds to the protection class assigned to it. These are the parameters that reflect the possibility of installing panels outside or inside the premises. The most common are:
- IP20 or IP30 - equipment that is not protected from moisture, therefore, it is suitable for installation exclusively in dry rooms, without dampness;
- IP44 or IP54 - devices with increased protection against mechanical burglary and moisture. They can be installed in rooms with a high level of dampness, but without direct jets of water;
- IP55 and 65 - designs designed for operation in difficult environmental conditions, in rooms with an aggressive environment, outside facilities. Equipped with reliable protection that allows them to be placed outside without additional cover. Waterproof and dustproof to keep your data safe.
All overhead and floor panels are installed outside buildings: on special supports, on walls, stands or on their own body.
Metal or plastic is used for the manufacture of the main switchboard housings. Metal structures are completely made of this material or equipped with glass and plastic transparent inserts located on the front panel. Such inserts are necessary for periodic data acquisition or equipment monitoring. Plastic boxes are smaller and are designed for installation inside buildings. For better body tightness, the devices are equipped with rubber seals or dust- and moisture-proof input cables.
Main switchboards located on the streets are protected by locking mechanisms to restrict access to them by unauthorized persons.
Types and purpose
Distribution boards are completed with devices and apparatuses, which determines their further purpose. In addition to the main switchboard, in the electrics, they allocate ASU (input switchgear) - cabinets designed to receive electrical energy from a power transformer or from power lines. The mandatory elements of such shields are automation and protection mechanisms, and its main function is to distribute energy to other shields throughout the building.
Another type of equipment - ATS - shields that are triggered in automatic mode when it is necessary to connect a reserve. They control the parameters of the network and, in the event of a loss of power from one source, connect the consumer to another.
For installation on staircases in multi-storey buildings floor boards are intended. A special niche in the wall or a place on its surface is allocated for them. They carry out the function of distributing electricity to panels of several individual apartments.
Separately, a shield can be installed at the facility for their own needs. It supplies power exclusively to those devices that are located on the territory of the object (distribution substations).
The selection and assembly of electrical panels is carried out exclusively by specialists, and access to them unauthorized persons, including consumers themselves, is limited to prevent break-ins and remove from building.
