The Construction of Panelboards
Panelboards, also known as distribution boards, are used to house electrical circuit breakers while also controlling light, heat, and power circuits. The actual construction of panelboards can vary and there are many sizes available. Modifications can also be made for existing or customized panelboards. panelboards include the can, the interior, bus bars, labeling, and dead front and trim.
panelboard Can
The can, or box, on a panelboard gives protection to the person working with the power equipment as well as the equipment itself inside of the panelboard. The can includes removable end panels in order to cut whatever conduit holes are needed. In order to support the interior of the panelboard, mounting suds are used.
Interior of Panelboards
The interior of panelboard contains three parts: overcurrent protection devices, bus bars, and insulated neutral bus bars. In order for the interior to be secure inside of the can, the interior is positioned and attached to the mounting studs.
Bus Bars for Panelboards
The common connection between two or more circuits is the bus bar. The circuits in the panelboard must be arranged accordingly with the standards that are set in place. Circuit protection devices can be attached right to the bus bars. Bus bars also include split neutrals, which are connected to it in the panelboard. A high leg bus bar is also included in the panelboard.
panelboard Labeling
The label on panelboards is completely necessary to be included on the panelboard. The label includes the type of panelboard it is, the voltage rating, and the ampacity. Labels are also included in the panelboards to correctly identify the circuits.
Dead Front and Trim of Panelboards
The part that covers the front area of the panelboard is the dead front and trim. There is a door for entry inside. This is the only access point of the panelboard. When opening the front, access is given to overcurrent devices, but the bus bars and internal wiring cannot be accessed. This helps to add to protecting people from having contact with the inner components.
Modifications to Panelboards
Not every house or building is constructed in exactly the same way so there have to be different panelboards available for different needs. Customized panelboards can be created for newly constructed houses or buildings based on the need. Customized panelboards can also be made in order to replace panelboards that are already installed. Differences in panelboards can be in the number of panels on it, the way in which it is mounted, and specifications for the electrical equipment. Having a customized or modified panelboard can be for those areas mentioned as well as feed through lugs, sub feed lugs, and others.
The construction and configuration panelboards can vary for different sites. The main components of a panelboard are the can, the interior, the bus bars, and the label. Modifications and customizations can be made to make the panelboard be a better fit for the house or building.
