Everyone has heard of a switchboard at least once. This device plays an important role in the protection of electrical systems and devices connected to them. Knowing what a shield is and how it works, you can ensure the reliable and safe operation of the electrical network in everyday life and in the industrial sphere.
Content
- Main function
- Varieties of distribution equipment
- Mounting options
- Features of operation
- Design differences
Main function
It is customary to place all protective and distribution electrical equipment in special shields. Previously, their role was played by junction boxes, but their use was not always convenient. For example, when repairing and installing a regular outlet, you had to turn off the electricity throughout the house, and when installation of powerful devices, equip them with additional protective devices that were needed somewhere place.
With the help of an electrical panel, it was possible to get rid of such inconveniences, as well as to minimize the risk of electrical equipment burning. Due to the design features of the device, the energy passing through it does not come in excess through one of the channels, but is evenly distributed over all. Such a scheme is of particular importance for residential buildings where a large number of household electrical devices are used.
In addition to protecting the electronics from damage, the electrical switchboard also saves people doing electrical work at home and at work from serious electrical injuries.
Varieties of distribution equipment
For industrial and domestic needs, different types of switchboards are used. Depending on the size of the area that needs to be secured, they are:
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The main ones. They have large dimensions, so they are well suited for large industries and transformer substations. Provide a reliable supply of energy to the whole object, guaranteeing its protection against short circuits and overloads. Can automatically switch from main power mode to standby mode. - Introductory. They are installed at the points of power cable entry into multi-storey buildings, large office centers, industrial premises. They effectively separate the supply lines of the panels located on the floors and in the apartments.
- Storey. Most often they are installed in office buildings or residential buildings to distribute electricity to several apartments. They provide a place for placing modular automatic devices and electricity metering devices.
- Apartment. Fastened at the place where the cable enters the apartment (in the hallway, vestibule, near the front door). They perform the function of protection against overloads and short circuits, distribution of group power lines and energy metering.
A special category is an electrical distribution board, designed for the safe transfer of consumers from the main power supply to the backup in the event of an emergency. It is called an emergency switchboard and is used in special cases for uninterrupted power supply (in hospitals, schools, etc.). ). Shields are also distinguished into separate categories:
- Lighting. Needed in rare cases of enabling and disabling automation.
- Management. They control the operation of heating systems, ventilation and alarms in large shopping centers.
- Automation. They control the software of various electronic systems.
Some types of medical and computing devices that are sensitive to power surges require special protection. They are equipped with uninterruptible power supply switchboards.
Mounting options
An important classifying feature is the location of the switchboard. Based on the installation method, it can be:
- External (overhead). This is the most common model, optimally suited for laying hidden and outdoor electrical wiring in wooden rooms (houses, baths). It is made of plastic or metal, has considerable dimensions, therefore it requires a certain space for installation.
- Embedded. It is mounted flush with the wall, does not protrude, therefore it has a more aesthetic appearance. The flange on the front side of the device makes the technological joint invisible. It is used in cases where the number of modules on the panel significantly exceeds the number of outlet lines.
Another option for installing a switchboard - floor-standing - is extremely rarely used in everyday life. The reason for such rare use is the very large size of the device, which makes it inconvenient to use it at home. More suitable for industrial plants with high current loads.
Regardless of the installation method, the place where the electrical panel will be located must meet the established standards. It should be well lit (better with natural light) and ventilated. The location of flammable and explosive substances near the device is unacceptable. The specialists involved in the maintenance of the electrical panel must have constant easy access to it. Compliance with these requirements is a guarantee for the safe and efficient operation of switchgear.
Features of operation
Depending on where the device will be used, the material of manufacture may be different. For a private house or apartment, it is worth purchasing a shield made of lightweight plastic and having an aesthetic appearance. Modern models made of high-quality plastic do not require mandatory grounding and have a long service life.
The metal version is characterized by increased resistance to mechanical damage, reliability and long-term operation. A feature of metal shields is their heavy weight and unattractive appearance. They are good for use in garage, utility and industrial areas.
Protection against dust and moisture is considered an important condition for the correct operation of any electrical panel. Such protection is defined by specific standards. Indoor standards IP21, IP31 and IP32 are acceptable. For the street, you need a standard of at least IP54, necessarily supplemented with sealed doors and sealed cable entries.
Design differences
Despite the fact that all electrical panels have a similar operating principle and perform protective functions, their designs have certain differences.
Modular devices are created exclusively for the installation of the corresponding equipment, they consist of rails and bus platforms. An obligatory part of the design is an external covering panel made of plastic or metal.
The metering devices are equipped with modular circuit breakers and a platform for mounting metering devices mounted on screws or rails.
The design of metering and distribution devices includes special rails designed for attaching protective devices to outlet lines. Such shields are equipped with a lockable compartment for the input switching device.
The main distinguishing feature of any switchboard is the number of modules in them. There are devices with 12, 16, 18 and even 10 modules. When choosing a device with one or another number of modules, you should be guided by a detailed wiring diagram. Such a diagram should reflect all points of energy consumption, circuit breakers and fuses, and also take into account equipment with a high power rating.
