With various sizes and complex mechanical structures, electrical panels are considered one of the most essential components in electrical systems. They ensure a smooth distribution of electricity among homes, industries, and other commercial settings. These panels function as the brain of your electrical system and comprehend the amount of power needed for specific locations.
They house the circuit breakers, fuses, and other devices that manage the flow of electricity, helping protect against overloading and short circuits. If you're wondering, "How many types of panel boards are there?" or their roles in electrical systems, this guide will provide a thorough overview to answer all your questions.
What Does An Electric Panel Do?
Before we discuss an electrical panel, we must know its primary functions. An electrical panel, also known as a breaker panel, is a hub for managing electricity in the electrical system. It evenly distributes electricity to different circuits, ensuring each circuit receives the necessary amount of power.
Electrical panels ensure a smooth and equal distribution of power to various circuits safely. This equal distribution helps prevent short circuits and overloads through circuit breakers and fuses.
In some advanced systems, the electrical panel allows energy monitoring and more efficient usage of electrical power.
How Many Types Of Panel Boards Are There?
There are four types of electric panels, and each of them comes with different functions and qualities.
1. Automatic Power Factor Control (APFC) Panels
Used mainly to improve a system’s power factor by turning the capacitors off and on automatically. It helps in reducing power consumption and boosts the system’s efficiency. Metal industries, automobile, cement, and chemical industries use these types of panels. Windmills and power stations that help generate electricity use these panels. Also, commercial places like malls, banks, colleges, and IT industries use these panels to secure an efficient power supply.
2. Automatic Mains Failure (AMF) Panels
These types of electric panels measure the failure of the main power supply and automatically turn on the backup power source (e.g., generator). They are also used to track power and turn on the main power supply when it is available. These panels are widely used in commercial and industrial sectors for uninterrupted power supply. Many systems often require a switch between electric supply and backup power sources, and these panels are used there, too.
3. Motor Control Centre (MCC) Panels
Motor control centre panels are used to control the functionality of multiple motors in a system. They protect the motors, monitor their function, and control features like overload issues, short circuits, etc. Food, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries that use multiple motors for their operations install MCC panels. They are also used in power plants and power management systems.
4. Power Control Centre (PCC) Panels
They serve as a means of distributing power to different sub-circuits within a system from the main source. Each sub-circuit offers features like circuit breakers, relays, and fuses that work, as well as protection and isolation features. Industries having centralised control and monitoring must have PCC electric panels. These panels help in the equal distribution of electricity to all the electrical equipment.
How to Choose The Right Electric Panel?
Picking the right electrical panel is essential for guaranteeing your electrical system's productivity, security, and life span. Here are a few elements to consider:
Power requirements: The first step is calculating the power demand of your entire system. For bigger homes or business spaces, main breaker panels or modern control panels might be more suitable, while smaller homes can work with sub-panels or main lug panels.
Future Expansions: If you're arranging future extensions, like adding more rooms or updating the system, make sure that the electrical panel can handle extra circuits without requiring a total overhaul.
Safety Features: For conditions where safety is critical, like hospitals or chemical plants, consider panels with modern technologies like transfer switches or fuse boxes.
Local Regulations: Always ensure that your electrical panels align with the electrical codes and standards of your local area, as this can influence security, protection, and resale value.
Budget: While main breaker panels are financially savvy for most residential applications, industrial panels like AMF or APFC Panels are more costly. However, they offer long-term benefits for heavy-duty use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, electrical panels play a major role in supplying and managing electricity safely and efficiently to various systems. From homes to large commercial areas, every place has its own unique requirements that should be considered before choosing an electrical panel. Understanding the many types of boards and their separate applications and features will help you make the right decision.
If you need extra guidance on electrical panels, Makpowerts Transformers is always there to help. We not only help but also manufacture electrical panels for your industrial and commercial needs.
Contact us today to learn more and find the best panel for your next project!
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